The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the fourth spell of monsoon rains, forecasting widespread rainfall across the province from July 29 to August 5.
According to the PDMA, most districts of Punjab are expected to receive rain during the period. Heavy downpours are likely in Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Chiniot, Khushab, Mianwali, Layyah, Bhakkar, Noorpur Thal, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Okara, and Pakpattan.
The authority also forecast rain in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, Khanewal, Multan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Rajanpur between July 31 and August 3.
Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is also expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sialkot, and Narowal.
PDMA warned that heavy rain could trigger urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan, while landslides are likely in Murree, Galiyat, and other hilly areas.
PDMA Director General Umar Mela said that, on the instructions of the Punjab chief minister, alerts have been issued to all commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to ensure preparedness.
He directed district administrations to complete all necessary arrangements for possible emergencies and implement preventive measures, particularly in major cities vulnerable to urban flooding.
The DG also cautioned that rainfall in upper catchment areas could increase water levels in eastern rivers and adjoining hill torrents, raising the risk of flash floods. He instructed all relevant departments to remain on high alert.
Alerts have been issued to the Health, Irrigation, Communication and Works, Local Government, and Livestock departments to ensure a swift and coordinated response to any emergency.
Umar Mela urged residents to take precautionary measures during severe weather, avoid staying in unsafe or dilapidated buildings, and refrain from unnecessary travel during heavy rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms.
He also advised parents to keep children away from low-lying areas, stagnant water, electricity poles, and exposed power lines to prevent accidents.
The PDMA has asked citizens to contact its 1129 helpline for immediate assistance in case of any emergency.
