PMD Warns of High Dengue Risk Amid Floods and Prolonged Monsoon Rains
ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a fresh warning of a possible dengue outbreak across the country, linking the threat to this year’s prolonged monsoon rains, widespread flooding, and ideal weather conditions for mosquito breeding.
According to PMD’s Dengue Alert-I, dengue fever has become a recurring health crisis in Pakistan over the past decade, with major outbreaks typically reported in the post-monsoon season.
Experts note that the dengue risk intensifies when temperatures remain between 26°C and 29°C for three to five weeks, humidity levels exceed 60%, and rainfall crosses 27 mm—factors that now coincide across large parts of the country. Dengue mosquitoes are most active two hours after sunrise and before sunset, and their breeding activity slows only when temperatures dip below 16°C.
This year, heavy rains, river overflows, and reservoir discharges have left large portions of Punjab and Sindh underwater, displacing millions and overcrowding relief shelters. Officials warn that stagnant floodwater, high humidity, and favorable temperatures may trigger widespread dengue outbreaks starting September 20 onward.
High-risk cities include Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Sialkot, Peshawar, Sukkur, and Hyderabad, in addition to flood-hit districts nationwide.
Authorities have been directed to step up preventive measures, including fumigation, larvicide spraying, and the removal of stagnant water in affected areas. Local administrations and health departments have also been told to monitor environmental and meteorological conditions closely.
Public Advisory
The public has been urged to take immediate precautions. PMD recommends removing or emptying containers that collect rainwater, keeping water storage covered, and using mosquito repellents, nets, and coils—particularly during peak mosquito activity in the early morning and late afternoon.
People are also advised to wear full-sleeved clothing, keep windows and doors screened or closed, and maintain hygiene in temporary shelters. In flood-hit areas, residents are encouraged to avoid stagnant water around tents and use only boiled or treated water.
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