The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert ahead of the fourth spell of monsoon rains, warning that widespread rainfall is expected across Punjab from July 29 to August 5.
According to the authority, rain is likely to affect most districts during the forecast period. Heavy showers are expected in Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Chiniot, Khushab, Mianwali, Layyah, Bhakkar, Noorpur Thal, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Okara, and Pakpattan.
The weather system is also expected to bring rainfall to Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, Khanewal, Multan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Rajanpur from July 31 to August 3.
In northern Punjab, heavy rain has been forecast for Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sialkot, and Narowal.
PDMA warned that intense rainfall could lead to urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan. It also cautioned that landslides may occur in Murree, Galiyat, and other hilly regions due to persistent rain.
PDMA Director General Umar Mela said that, following the directions of the Punjab chief minister, commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province have been instructed to remain fully prepared for any emergency situation.
He directed district administrations to complete all contingency measures and ensure preventive arrangements, particularly in cities at greater risk of urban flooding.
The DG further warned that rainfall in the upper catchment areas could raise water levels in eastern rivers and nearby hill torrents, increasing the possibility of flash floods. He instructed all concerned departments to stay on high alert.
Emergency advisories have been issued to the Health, Irrigation, Communication and Works, Local Government, and Livestock departments to ensure a prompt and coordinated response if needed.
Umar Mela urged the public to exercise caution during severe weather, avoid unsafe or damaged buildings, and limit unnecessary travel during heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
He also advised parents to keep children away from low-lying areas, standing water, electricity poles, and exposed power lines to reduce the risk of accidents.
Citizens have been urged to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 for immediate assistance in the event of any emergency.
