Pakistan Warned of Harsher 2026 Monsoon as NDMA Issues Early Alert

Pakistan is bracing for a potentially harsher monsoon season in 2026 as the NDMA warns that rainfall may be 22–26% above normal, raising fresh concerns about flooding and climate driven disasters. The alert comes months earlier than usual, signalling the urgency of preparation after repeated years of severe weather shocks.

The warning follows a troubling pattern of escalating climate events. Pakistan is still recovering from the catastrophic 2022 floods, deadly 2024 monsoon systems, and widespread displacements this year, where 3.1 million people were moved to safety. These back to back emergencies highlight a system that reacts to crises but struggles to prevent them.

According to officials, early warnings alone will not be enough if riverbanks remain encroached upon, city drains stay blocked before monsoon, and provincial authorities fail to enforce evacuation or building regulations.

“Pakistan cannot afford another cycle of alerts, meetings and inaction,” climate experts say, urging immediate readiness at district and union council levels.

While the prime minister has directed ministries to implement short term climate and disaster management plans, the editorial stresses that administrative follow through will decide the country’s fate. The upcoming meeting of the National Water Council is expected to address long ignored issues including river management, land use and water governance.

Major cities including Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar must also upgrade drainage systems, clear hazardous encroachments and strengthen urban flood response. With months still left before monsoon season, Pakistan has a rare chance to prepare wasting it, the editorial warns, would be “unforgivable.”