The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a province-wide weather alert ahead of the second monsoon spell expected to affect the province from July 19. Authorities have warned of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms that could disrupt daily life in several districts.
According to the PDMA, the second monsoon spell is forecast to continue until July 23. During this period, many parts of Punjab are expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall. Officials have directed all district administrations to remain fully prepared for any weather-related emergency.
The authority has instructed commissioners, deputy commissioners, and other relevant departments to stay on high alert. Emergency response teams have also been told to ensure quick action if flooding or other incidents occur during the rainy period.
The PDMA said heavy rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Faisalabad, Khushab, Sargodha, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, and Chiniot.
Another round of rainfall is expected between July 20 and July 24 in Noorpur Thal, Bhakkar, Mianwali, Layyah, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Rahim Yar Khan, and Rajanpur.
Officials warned that the ongoing monsoon spell could increase the risk of urban flooding in major cities. Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, and Sialkot are considered the most vulnerable due to the expected intensity of rainfall.
The PDMA has also issued flood alerts for Nullah Leh, Murree, Galiyat, local rivers, and rainwater drains across northeastern Punjab. Authorities fear that seasonal streams and low-lying areas could experience flash flooding if heavy rain continues.
PDMA Director General Omar Abbas Mela said rising rainfall could increase water levels in rivers and adjoining waterways across Punjab. He added that the situation could lead to flash floods in seasonal streams and drainage channels.
Following the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, alerts have been sent to district administrations across the province. Officials from the Health, Irrigation, Communication and Works, Local Government, and Livestock departments have also been placed on alert.
The administration has been instructed to make advance arrangements to reduce the impact of urban flooding. Departments have been asked to keep machinery, emergency staff, and rescue equipment ready throughout the forecast period.
The PDMA has also issued a public safety advisory for residents. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain and remain indoors during thunderstorms and strong winds whenever possible.
People have been warned not to stand in open areas during lightning. They should also stay away from electricity poles, exposed wires, and flooded roads.
Parents have been urged to keep children away from rainwater drains, rivers, and floodwater. The authority also advised livestock owners and people living near rivers to remain alert because water levels may rise quickly during the monsoon spell.
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The PDMA has asked citizens to report any emergency by calling its helpline 1129. Authorities said they will continue monitoring weather conditions and coordinate with all concerned departments to minimize risks throughout the second monsoon spell in Punjab.
