Punjab is bracing for its eighth monsoon spell as widespread rainfall is forecast across most districts until September 5.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert, warning that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding.
Several districts could receive heavy rain during the spell, prompting provincial and district administrations to strengthen their preparedness.
The authority has therefore directed relevant officials to remain vigilant as the latest monsoon system approaches.
Heavy Rain Forecast Across Several Districts
According to the PDMA, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and Attock during the spell.
Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal and Gujrat are also expected to receive rainfall as the weather system moves across Punjab.
Meanwhile, heavy rain is likely in Lahore, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Wazirabad and Hafizabad during the forecast period.
The forecast also covers Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal, according to the authority.
Further showers are expected in Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal and Pakpattan during the spell.
Major Cities Face Urban Flooding Risk
The PDMA has warned that intense rainfall could overwhelm drainage systems and cause urban flooding in several cities.
Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat and Sialkot have been identified as areas facing a particular risk.
At the same time, rain-fed drains could experience flash flooding if rainfall becomes particularly intense across vulnerable areas.
The authority has also warned of landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas during heavy rainfall.
Consequently, local administrations have been asked to remain prepared for weather-related emergencies throughout the forecast period.
District Administrations Put on Advance Alert
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to maintain close vigilance.
He also instructed district administrations to ensure that contingency arrangements remain ready for possible emergencies.
The administrations have been placed on advance alert in accordance with instructions from the Punjab chief minister.
Furthermore, relevant departments have also been alerted to coordinate their preparations during the monsoon spell.
These departments include health, irrigation, communication and works, local government and livestock.
Jappa also stressed the importance of closely monitoring urban drainage systems and rainwater drains during intense rainfall.
Such monitoring can help authorities respond quickly if heavy rainfall causes water accumulation or flooding.
Authorities Issue Safety Advice to Residents
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel whenever thunderstorms and strong winds affect their areas.
Residents have also been advised to remain inside secure locations during periods of severe weather.
The PDMA has warned people against living in dilapidated or structurally unsafe houses during the monsoon spell.
Building collapses have caused fatalities during previous monsoon spells, making the precaution particularly important.
Residents should seek shelter during thunderstorms and avoid open areas to reduce their exposure to lightning strikes.
Meanwhile, parents have been advised to keep children away from standing water and exposed electrical wires.
They should also keep children away from utility poles and other potentially hazardous locations during rainfall.
Citizens have further been warned against approaching flooded drains and waterlogged areas during heavy rain.
Residents Urged to Follow Official Advisories
The PDMA has urged residents to follow official weather advisories as rainfall continues across different parts of Punjab.
People should also cooperate with local administrations if authorities issue instructions for evacuation from vulnerable locations.
Meanwhile, district administrations and relevant departments will continue monitoring conditions during the latest monsoon spell. For emergencies, citizens can contact the PDMA Punjab helpline at 1129.
