The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued alerts for possible flash floods, urban flooding and landslides amid heavy rain forecasts across the province from September 3 to 5.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Kasur and Okara during the period.
Several districts in central and southern Punjab, including Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan, are also likely to receive rainfall from September 4 to 5.
PDMA Director General Muhammad Saif Anwar Jappa warned of possible landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas due to the expected rainfall. He said alerts had been issued to commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province. The district administrations have been directed to make arrangements to deal with potential urban flooding in major cities.
Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala and Faisalabad face a risk of urban flooding, while flash flooding is also possible in rainwater drains and nullahs.
The PDMA has also alerted the health, irrigation, communications and works, local government, and livestock departments to remain prepared for any emergency.
Jappa urged citizens to take necessary precautions during severe weather and avoid staying in weak or dilapidated buildings, which can collapse during heavy rains. He also advised people to remain indoors or move to secure locations during strong winds and thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary travel.
Residents were warned to protect themselves from lightning by avoiding open spaces during thunderstorms. Parents were specifically urged to keep children away from accumulated water in low-lying areas, as well as electric poles and exposed power lines.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, citizens can contact the authority’s helpline at 1129 in case of an emergency.
