The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a province-wide alert for severe weather conditions starting from today (Tuesday).
According to weather forecast, a westerly wave is expected to bring intense thunderstorms, and heavy rain across the province from May 27 to 31.
According to the Met Office, the upper and central Punjab districts, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Sargodha, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujranwala, Lahore, Okara, Jhang, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, and Sheikhupura will experience heavy rains with hailstorms and lightning from the evening of May 27 through May 31.
During the same period, the Southern areas including Multan, DG Khan, Layyah, Rajanpur, Bhakkar, Bahawalpur, and Vehari are expected to experience light to moderate rain and thunderstorms.
Also Read: PDMA issues weather alert for rain, thunderstorms until Saturday
The authorities warned people to stay away from loose structures, including electric poles, trees, vehicles and solar panels during the intense weather conditions.
Punjab government has activated emergency protocols across all districts. The district administrations and all relevant departments, including health, education, irrigation, local government and Rescue 1122, have been put on alert.
Earlier, the provincial cabinet committee on disaster management met on Monday. The committee meeting focused on a comprehensive five-point agenda to strengthen the province’s response to the upcoming monsoon season.
PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia briefed the committee on the relief body’s preparations. The meeting approved a special grant for desilting operations in Waha (Rajanpur).
The meeting also reviewed survey regarding the Flood Risk Management. Officials shared survey plans in DG Khan division.
Authority’s DG Kathia urged citizens to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of any emergency. The authority can also be reached on WhatsApp +923178371900 and landline 042-9922135/6.
Solar panel regulations
Taking action against substandard fitting of solar panels, PDMA issued directives to the energy and local government departments and divisional and district administrations for comprehensive guidelines for the installation of solar panels.
