The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the sixth spell of monsoon rains expected from the night of August 16 to August 21.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), most districts of Punjab are likely to receive intermittent rainfall during the period.
Rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad.
Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal may also receive rain. Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan are expected to experience rainfall on August 20 and 21.
DG PDMA Muhammad Saif Anwar Jappa said heavy rains may cause urban flooding in Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore between August 17 and 20. He added that landslides are also possible in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas.
He said all district administrations had been alerted and directed to take precautionary measures in advance. He said there was also possibility of flash flooding in storm-water drains.
The DG said alerts had been issued to relevant departments, including health, irrigation, communication and construction, local government and livestock, to remain prepared for the weather system.
Jappa urged citizens to exercise caution during adverse weather and avoid staying in dilapidated buildings, which are at greater risk of collapse during the monsoon season. He advised people to seek shelter in safe locations during strong winds and thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel.
Citizens were also advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms to reduce the risk of lightning strikes and avoid open areas. Parents were urged to keep children away from low-lying areas, standing water, electric wires and utility poles.
Sixth Monsoon Spell to Hit Upper, Central Pakistan From August 17
