PDMA warns of heavy rain, flash floods during final monsoon spell
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the ninth and final spell of monsoon rains.
The PDMA has asked district administrations and relevant departments to remain fully prepared for possible weather-related emergencies.
The authority said advance warnings have already been issued to concerned administrations across the province.
Rain forecast in northern Punjab
According to the PDMA, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and Attock are expected to receive rain from September 12 to 17.
Several other districts are also likely to experience rain during the final spell.
From September 14 to 17, rain is forecast in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Wazirabad and Hafizabad.
Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib and Sargodha are also included in the forecast.
More districts may receive rain
The weather system is also expected to affect several districts in central and southern Punjab.
Rain is forecast in Khushab, Mianwali, Noorpur Thal, Faisalabad, Jhang and Toba Tek Singh.
Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan are also expected to receive rain.
The PDMA has advised local administrations in these areas to stay prepared and closely monitor the situation.
Urban flooding risk in major cities
The authority has warned that heavy monsoon rain could cause urban flooding in major cities.
Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala and Faisalabad have been identified as areas facing a particular risk.
Low-lying areas could experience water accumulation if heavy rain continues for an extended period.
Relevant departments have therefore been asked to take timely measures to manage rainwater and protect citizens.
Flash floods possible in rainwater channels
The PDMA has also warned about possible flash flooding in rainwater channels. Heavy rainfall in a short period can cause water levels to rise quickly, particularly in areas near natural waterways and low-lying channels.
The authority has alerted departments responsible for health, irrigation, communications and works, local government, and livestock. These departments have been directed to remain prepared and respond quickly if an emergency develops.
Landslide warning for hilly areas
Residents and authorities in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas have been placed on alert because of the risk of landslides. Heavy rain can weaken soil and increase the possibility of landslides on slopes and along roads.
Local authorities have been directed to take necessary precautionary measures in vulnerable areas. People living in or travelling through hilly regions have also been advised to remain cautious during periods of heavy rain.
PDMA urges citizens to take precautions
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain alert.
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He said warnings had been issued to district administrations in line with the directives of the chief minister. The PDMA has urged citizens to take precautionary measures during severe weather.
People have been advised to avoid living in weak or dilapidated buildings, as such structures can become dangerous during heavy rain and storms. The authority noted that weak structures have contributed to deaths during previous monsoon seasons.
Citizens advised to avoid unnecessary travel
The PDMA has advised citizens to stay in safe places during storms and avoid unnecessary travel. People should remain in protected areas during thunderstorms and avoid open spaces. Parents have also been advised to keep children away from low-lying areas and accumulated rainwater.
Citizens should stay away from electricity wires and poles during wet and stormy weather. The authority has warned that standing water near electrical infrastructure can create serious safety risks.
What should citizens do during thunderstorms?
People should move indoors or to other protected places when thunderstorms begin. They should avoid open fields, rooftops, and areas near electricity poles and wires. Residents should also avoid travelling through flooded roads and waterlogged areas where the depth of the water is uncertain.
Those living in vulnerable buildings should move to safer locations if there is a risk to the structure. The PDMA has also urged citizens to follow official weather and emergency instructions during the monsoon spell.
PDMA helpline available for emergencies
The authority has asked citizens to remain alert throughout the expected period of rain. People should report emergencies and seek help from the relevant authorities when necessary.
The PDMA helpline 1129 is available for assistance during emergencies. The authority has stressed that timely precautions can help reduce the risk to lives and property during severe weather.
