Punjab on High Alert as Rains Forecast Until August 15
News Desk
Islamabad: Punjab authorities have stepped up preparations as widespread monsoon rains are forecast across the province until August 15, with officials warning of possible urban flooding, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an advance alert to district administrations, directing officials to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures before the expected rainfall.
The warning covers a large number of districts, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Gujrat, Sargodha, Jhang, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan. Rain is also expected in the Potohar region and several areas of southern Punjab.
According to the PDMA, major cities face a heightened risk of urban flooding during intense rainfall. Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujrat and Sialkot have been identified among the cities where authorities need to make advance arrangements to deal with accumulated rainwater.
Mountainous areas are facing a different threat, with the PDMA warning of possible landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly regions. Flash flooding is also possible in storm-water drains following heavy downpours.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa has instructed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to ensure that emergency preparations are in place. The directives have been issued in line with instructions from the Punjab chief minister.
Relevant departments, including health, irrigation, communications and construction, local government and livestock, have also been alerted to prepare for possible weather-related emergencies.
The PDMA has urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather and move to safe locations in the event of strong winds or thunderstorms. Citizens have also been advised to stay away from vulnerable and dilapidated buildings, which officials say pose a serious risk of collapse during heavy monsoon rains.
Authorities have particularly cautioned people to seek shelter in secure locations during thunderstorms and avoid open areas to reduce the risk of lightning strikes.
With rainfall expected across much of Punjab, officials are now focusing on preventive measures to minimise the impact of flooding, landslides and other monsoon-related hazards.
