LAHORE: The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert ahead of the 10th spell of monsoon rains, warning of heavy downpours across the province from September 6 to 9.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, strong thunderstorms and heavy rains are expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Gujrat, and Sialkot. Showers are also forecast in Narowal, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Okara, Sahiwal, Kasur, Jhang, Sargodha, and Mianwali. Southern districts, including Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Rajanpur, are also likely to experience rainfall.
Between September 7 and 9, flash flooding is feared in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, the authority cautioned.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the rivers Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej were already facing flood-like conditions, while urban drains in major cities could overflow due to intense showers.
Commissioners, deputy commissioners, and officials from health, irrigation, communications, local government, and livestock departments have been directed to stay on high alert.
The PDMA urged citizens to exercise caution during bad weather, avoid gathering near rivers, refrain from unnecessary travel, and seek shelter in safe places during storms. In emergencies, people have been advised to call the PDMA helpline 1129.
