Punjab braces for ninth spell of heavy monsoon rains

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for the ninth spell of monsoon rains in Punjab, warning of heavy thunderstorms and dangerous flood levels in multiple rivers across the province.

Authorities have directed all deputy commissioners and rescue teams to remain on high alert to protect lives and property.

Heavy rains forecast in Punjab

According to PDMA, heavy thunderstorms are expected in several districts, including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Gujrat, and Sialkot between August 29 and September 2. Rain is also forecast in Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Rajanpur, raising concerns about flooding in low-lying areas. 

Also Read: Punjab floods: At least 7 killed, several injured across districts

The Pakistan Meteorological Department noted that this year’s monsoon began five days earlier than usual, on June 26, with rainfall in late June recorded at 219% above average. July also saw 62% higher rainfall than normal, while August rainfall in Punjab dropped significantly, recording 57% less than the monthly average. 

The department further said that rainfall in Sindh was recorded at 48% less, Balochistan 32% more than average, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa 5% more, Gilgit-Baltistan 52% more, and Azad Kashmir less than normal. 

Dangerous flood levels in Punjab rivers

The PDMA reported alarming water levels in major rivers, creating a serious flood threat in multiple regions:

• River Chenab: At Head Marala, inflows were recorded at 397,000 cusecs, with outflows at 390,000 cusecs, showing some decline, yet a high-level flood situation. However, Head Khanki is facing an “extremely dangerous high flood” with flows at 1,043,000 cusecs, while Qadirabad is recording a similarly dangerous level at 1,077,000 cusecs.

• River Ravi: A very high flood has been reported at Jassar, where water flow has reached 195,000 cusecs. At Shahdara, a medium flood continues with 84,000 cusecs, while Balloki Headworks is also experiencing medium flood levels with inflows of 90,000 cusecs.

• River Sutlej: At Ganda Singh Wala, water flow is at 261,000 cusecs, creating a “very dangerous high flood” situation. At Head Sulemanki, moderate flooding has been recorded with 180,000 cusecs. 

Also Read: Heavy rains forecast across Pakistan from Aug 29 to Sept 2

Relief commissioner issues strict instructions

Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has instructed all field officers and deputy commissioners to stay present in vulnerable areas, ensuring immediate evacuation of residents from flood-hit zones.

“In line with the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the safety of people’s lives and property remains the top priority. All relevant rescue and relief agencies must stay on high alert—there is no room for negligence,” he said. 

Also Read: Lahore under 'threat of disaster' if flood level doesn't drop: Sources

The PDMA has assured that it is maintaining continuous coordination across the province to manage the unfolding emergency.

The Met Department has predicted a fresh spell of rains across the country starting August 29, with showers expected to continue in different regions until September 2. 

The weather system may trigger urban flooding, landslides, and wind-related damage in vulnerable areas.

Rain forecast by region

According to the Met Office, the upcoming rain spell will affect multiple provinces:

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Rain expected from August 29 to September 1.

• Punjab and Islamabad: Showers likely between August 29 and September 1.

• South Punjab: Rain predicted from August 29 to September 2.

• Sindh: Some areas may receive rain on August 30 and 31.

• Balochistan: Showers likely from August 30 to September 1.

• Upper parts of the country: Rain expected from August 30 to September 1.

Possible risks and hazards

The Met Office cautioned that heavy rainfall may lead to landslides in hilly areas and urban flooding in major cities. Strong winds and thunderstorms could also cause damage to weak infrastructure and standing crops.

Authorities on alert

Local administrations have been advised to remain on high alert during the forecast period and ensure that precautionary measures are in place to minimize potential losses. Citizens living in flood-prone or landslide-prone areas have been urged to exercise caution and follow safety advisories.