The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a monsoon alert in anticipation of the fifth spell of seasonal rains. The spell is set to begin on July 28 and continue until July 31, with heavy downpours expected across most districts of the province.
According to the PDMA’s statement released on Saturday, widespread rainfall is predicted in major cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Jhelum, Sheikhupura, Sahiwal, and Jhang.
Additionally, northern hilly areas like Murree and Galiyat are also expected to experience significant rainfall, raising concerns about potential landslides.
The PDMA spokesperson further noted that moderate to heavy rain is likely in other regions, including Attock, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Sargodha, and Mianwali during this monsoon spell. Authorities have advised residents in these areas to stay prepared and take necessary precautions.
Between July 29 and 31, further rainfall is forecasted for southern districts such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Bhakkar, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, and Rajanpur.
Relief Commissioner Punjab, Nabeel Javed, emphasized the severity of the current monsoon spell, noting that the intensity of rainfall this year is unusually high. “The monsoon has been exceptionally heavy for the 14th consecutive year, with rainfall recorded at 73% above last year’s figures,” he said.
In light of these forecasts, local authorities have urged citizens to follow precautionary measures to reduce the risk from the rains. Tourists visiting hilly regions like Murree have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to the risk of landslides.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted additional widespread monsoon activity across the country next week. Rain is expected in Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and cities in Punjab from July 28 to 31. Balochistan will experience rain from July 29 to 31, and Sindh is forecasted to receive showers on July 30 and 31.
The PMD has also warned of potential flash floods in local rivers and streams, as well as urban flooding in low-lying areas. “Stormy rainfall may occur in some regions during this spell,” the advisory stated.
With the possibility of flooding and road blockages, authorities have urged tourists and commuters to stay informed by monitoring weather updates and planning their travel accordingly.
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