ISLAMABAD, July 21: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast that southern Punjab may face a ‘very dry’ season this year.

In its July-Sept rainfall forecast, the Met office says most parts of the country, including the Gilgit-Baltistan region, are likely to receive below normal rainfall during the current monsoon season.

Based on the output of the combined general circulation model (CGCM) used to predict the rainfall amount, the Met office further says that normal to above normal rainfall is expected in northeastern and northern parts of the country as well as coastal areas of lower Sindh.

Above normal rainfall is expected in Kashmir, eastern and northeastern parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Fata this month. The remaining parts of the country, including Sindh, southern Punjab and Balochistan – except central parts – are likely to receive below normal rainfall.

The Met office says there is no severe weather warning for flash flood, tropical cyclone or heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours.

Seasonal low lies over north Balochistan, while monsoon currents are penetrating into most parts of the country.

Mainly hot and humid weather is expected in most parts of the country. However, rain/thundershower or rain is likely in isolated places of northeast Punjab, northeast Balochistan, upper Sindh, Makran division, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.