The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert as widespread monsoon rains are forecast across Lahore and Punjab over the weekend.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), rain is expected in several districts from the evening of August 21 to August 23.
These include Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat and Mandi Bahauddin.
Heavy rainfall is forecast for Lahore, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Sahiwal and Okara. Rain is also expected in Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan.
The PDMA warned of possible urban flooding in Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Narowal, while landslides could occur in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas. Flash flooding in stormwater drains is also possible.
PDMA Director General Muhammad Saif Anwar Jappa said commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab had been alerted on the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He directed district administrations to take precautionary measures, particularly in major cities vulnerable to urban flooding.
Relevant departments, including Health, Irrigation, Communication and Works, Local Government and Livestock, have also been placed on alert.
Jappa urged citizens to take necessary precautions during severe weather and avoid staying in dilapidated buildings, which face a higher risk of collapse during the monsoon season. He advised people to remain indoors or move to secure locations during strong winds and storms and avoid unnecessary travel.
Citizens were also advised to seek shelter from lightning and thunderstorms and avoid open areas during severe weather. Parents were urged to keep children away from stagnant water, electric wires and poles, particularly in low-lying areas.
Pakistan Braces for Seventh Monsoon Spell From August 21 to 23
