Rain Eases Heat But Prompts Flood, Landslide Alerts
News Desk
Islamabad: Widespread monsoon rains brought relief from intense heat across several parts of Pakistan on Saturday, but authorities warned of possible flooding, urban waterlogging and landslides as the wet spell is expected to continue over the next 24 hours.
Heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning lashed Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while Lahore and several other cities in Punjab also received significant rainfall. Low-lying areas of Gujrat experienced water accumulation, while cooler weather prevailed in Hafizabad, Daska and Wazirabad following the showers.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rain and thunderstorms in Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan over the next 24 hours.
Showers are also expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad and Kasur. Northeastern Balochistan is also likely to receive evening and nighttime thunderstorms, while central districts of Sindh and Balochistan are expected to remain hot.
In response to the forecast, the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a province-wide alert, directing commissioners, deputy commissioners and emergency response agencies to remain on high alert for any weather-related emergencies.
The authority said the provincial control room and district emergency operation centres have been activated on the instructions of the Punjab chief minister, while Rescue 1122, WASA and other departments have been instructed to ensure prompt drainage of rainwater from low-lying areas and remain prepared for emergency response.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned that persistent monsoon rains could trigger landslides in northern mountainous regions and flash flooding in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid electricity poles, hanging wires, mud houses and dilapidated buildings during rainfall, while travellers heading to hilly areas have been urged to exercise caution due to the increased risk of landslides.
