MULTAN: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a high-level alert across Punjab, warning of heavy rains and potential flooding between Saturday, July 5, and Thursday, July 10, as the second spell of the monsoon season approaches.
With severe weather conditions expected, PDMA has directed all relevant provincial departments—including WASA, Rescue 1122, local administrations, and departments such as Health, Irrigation, Communication and Works, Local Government, and Livestock—to remain on high alert and prepare for emergency response operations.
The second phase of monsoon rains is forecast to affect various regions, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, and Faisalabad.
These areas are expected to experience significant rainfall, with thunderstorms and lightning predicted in Okara, Kasur, Khushab, Sargodha, Bhakkar, and Mianwali.
In South Punjab, regions including Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Muzaffargarh, Khanewal, Lodhran, Rajanpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and Layyah are also at risk of thunderstorms and heavy downpours on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday.
Director General of PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali Kathia, warned that water levels in major rivers are expected to rise significantly starting July 7, raising the likelihood of flooding in river-adjacent areas, hill torrents, and seasonal streams. Additionally, heavy rainfall may cause urban flooding in northern and central Punjab cities, where drainage systems may struggle to cope with the volume of water.
In response to the anticipated weather conditions, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has instructed relevant authorities to take preemptive measures to safeguard the public. Irfan Ali Kathia emphasized the importance of safety during inclement weather, advising citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during storms and to seek shelter in safe places.
He also highlighted the need for extra caution around low-lying areas prone to flooding, as well as electric poles and power lines, particularly during thunderstorms and lightning strikes.
Kathia urged families to protect children from potential hazards, reinforcing the importance of remaining vigilant and prepared as the monsoon rains continue to affect the region.
