The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert amid heavy rain forecast across several Punjab districts until September 17.
The authority has warned of possible urban flooding in major cities, flash flooding in rainwater drains and landslides in hilly areas.
According to the PMD, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and Attock are likely to receive rain until September 17. From September 14 to 17, rain is forecast in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib and Sargodha.
Rain is also expected in Khushab, Mianwali, Noorpur Thal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and adjoining areas.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain on high alert. He said warnings had been issued to district administrations on the instructions of the Punjab chief minister.
Administrations in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala and Faisalabad have been directed to take precautionary measures against possible urban flooding. Authorities have also been put on alert for landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas.
The health, irrigation, communication and works, local government and livestock departments have also been alerted.
Jappa urged citizens to avoid unsafe and dilapidated buildings, stay in secure locations during storms and avoid unnecessary travel. He also advised people to remain indoors during thunderstorms and take precautions against lightning.
Parents were particularly advised to keep children away from stagnant floodwater, low-lying areas, exposed electricity wires and power poles.
Pakistan Braces for Monsoon Rains, Hailstorms from Sept 12 to 17
