PDMA issues alert for new monsoon spell

News Desk 

Islamabad:  The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab on Sunday issued an alert for the 11th spell of monsoon rains, forecasting showers in the upper catchment areas of rivers between September 16 and 19.

A PDMA spokesperson cautioned that heavy downpours could trigger flooding in streams and nullahs. Commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab have been instructed by the Chief Minister to remain vigilant.

Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said all concerned departments—including health, irrigation, communication and works, local government, and livestock—have been placed on high alert.

He urged citizens to adopt precautionary measures, avoid gatherings near rivers, and stay indoors during storms. In case of emergency, the PDMA helpline 1129 will remain operational.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast hot and dry weather for most districts of Sindh over the next 24 hours, with no significant rainfall expected.

Mostly dry weather continued across Punjab on Sunday, with temperatures staying slightly above seasonal averages in several southern and central districts.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported higher daytime temperatures in Multan, Bahawalpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan, while northern parts such as Rawalpindi, Murree, and Attock experienced cooler mornings and nights.

The PMD predicted dry conditions over the next 24 hours but warned that smog and haze may persist in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala divisions due to increasing air pollution and calm winds.

Farmers were advised to schedule irrigation accordingly, and residents were urged to take protective measures against smog during early morning and evening hours.