LAHORE: Rain is expected across most districts of Punjab through August 23, with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warning of possible urban flooding in several major cities.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, monsoon rains are expected across most districts over the next 24 hours, while a rain-producing system remains active across Punjab, including Lahore.
During the past 24 hours, Sialkot received the highest rainfall at 87 millimeters, followed by Murree and Narowal with 53mm each. Rawalpindi received 21mm, Gujrat 24mm, Gujranwala 3mm, Mangla 7mm and Attock 1mm.
The PDMA forecast further rain in Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat and Mandi Bahauddin. Heavy rainfall is also expected in Lahore, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Sahiwal and Okara.
Rain is also forecast for Bhakkar, Layyah, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan. The PDMA Punjab has warned of possible urban flooding in Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Narowal.
PDMA Director General Syed Inam Anwar Jappa said landslides were possible in Murree, Galiyat and other mountainous areas, while flash flooding could occur in rainwater channels. District administrations have been placed on alert on the instructions of the Punjab chief minister.
He said authorities in major cities should remain vigilant against urban flooding caused by monsoon rains. The health, irrigation, communications and works, local government and livestock departments have also been alerted.
Jappa urged citizens to take precautionary measures during bad weather and avoid staying in dilapidated or mud-built houses, which are more vulnerable to collapse during the monsoon season.
He also advised people to stay in safe locations during storms and avoid unnecessary travel. Citizens were urged to avoid open areas during thunderstorms and seek shelter to protect themselves from lightning.
Parents were advised to keep children away from accumulated rainwater, electric wires and poles. Citizens can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of an emergency.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department said the weakening rain system in Lahore had contributed to rising temperatures. Light rain is expected in the city this evening, with another spell possible on Sunday morning.
The department said a new weather system approaching from Dera Ismail Khan could bring rain to Faisalabad and Sargodha during the night.
Lahore’s temperature is expected to range between 28°C and 37°C. Despite a temporary reduction in rainfall, the current monsoon spell is expected to continue for the next 24 hours.
