Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab has issued an alert for the sixth Monsoon spell across the province.
Rainfall is forecast in most Punjab districts from the night of August 16 until August 21. According to a PDMA spokesperson, several northern and central districts are expected to receive rain during this period.
These include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot and Narowal. Rain is also forecast in Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad.
Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura and Nankana Sahib are also likely to experience rainfall. The forecast also covers Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal.
Heavy Rain Forecast in Punjab
PDMA said rainfall could also affect several districts in southern and central Punjab.
Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah and Bhakkar may receive rain on August 20 and 21. Similar conditions are forecast for Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan.
The authority has warned of heavy rainfall between August 17 and August 20. The latest Monsoon spell could cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of several major cities.
Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore are among the areas facing possible urban flooding. Rainwater drains could also experience flash flooding during periods of intense rainfall.
Landslide Risk in Murree and Galiyat
PDMA has warned about possible landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas.
Travellers and residents have been advised to remain cautious during severe weather. PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa has directed officials across Punjab to remain on high alert.
Commissioners and deputy commissioners have been instructed to prepare for weather-related emergencies. District administrations have also received alerts following instructions from the Punjab chief minister.
Authorities in major cities have been asked to prepare for possible urban flooding. The health, irrigation, local government, livestock, communications and works departments have also received alerts.
Citizens Advised to Take Precautions
Residents have been advised to avoid damaged and mud-built houses during severe weather.
PDMA said such structures have previously caused fatalities during periods of heavy rainfall. People should remain in safe locations during storms and avoid unnecessary travel.
Residents have also been advised to seek safe shelter during lightning and thunderstorms. Parents should prevent children from approaching floodwater, electricity wires and power poles.
Extra caution is advised in low-lying areas where water accumulation could create additional risks. People should also avoid staying in open areas during thunderstorms and severe weather.
The sixth Monsoon spell is expected to continue affecting Punjab until August 21. Citizens should follow official weather updates and instructions issued by local authorities.
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In case of an emergency, residents can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.
