The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a province-wide alert as heavy rains are expected to hit most districts of Punjab starting tomorrow.
The weather system is likely to continue until April 4, raising concerns over flooding and safety risks. According to PDMA Punjab, widespread rainfall is expected in multiple regions, with thunderstorms likely to accompany the downpours.
The spell of rain is predicted to continue for several days, potentially affecting daily life and travel across the province.
Rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, and Gujranwala. Other areas likely to receive rainfall include Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Gujrat, Khushab, and Mandi Bahauddin.
In central and southern Punjab, rain is forecast for Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Chiniot, Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, and surrounding areas.
Flooding risk in southern Punjab
The PDMA has warned that the flow of rainwater drains in Dera Ghazi Khan and the Suleman Range may increase due to the expected rainfall. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any potential flooding or damage in vulnerable areas.
Following instructions from the chief minister of Punjab, an alert has been issued to all relevant departments. PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab have been directed to remain vigilant.
Rescue agencies and district administrations have also been instructed to stay on high alert to respond quickly to any emergencies.
Safety advisories
Officials have urged citizens to take precautionary measures during the rainy spell. People are advised to stay in safe places during lightning and avoid open areas during thunderstorms.
The PDMA DG has advised farmers to plan their activities according to the weather conditions to avoid crop damage. Tourists traveling to northern and mountainous areas have been urged to take extra precautions due to the risk of landslides triggered by heavy rains.
In case of any emergency, citizens have been advised to contact PDMA’s helpline at 1129 for immediate assistance. Authorities emphasized the importance of preparedness as the province braces for an intense spell of rain over the coming days.
Rain, thunderstorms in Karachi
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has issued a weather advisory forecasting rain in Karachi. It said a new system of westerly winds is expected to enter the country through Balochistan tomorrow.
According to the department, rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in Karachi on Thursday, and the system may remain active until April 4. Heavy rainfall is expected in some parts of the city.
Thunderstorms are also predicted in various districts of rural Sindh, where there is a possibility of hailstorms, including in Karachi.
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.jpg&w=256&q=75 "Holiday announced on July 22")
