The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert across Punjab as the ninth and final spell of monsoon rains is expected to affect several districts from Saturday (today) until Sept 17.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and Attock on Saturday, while Lahore is likely to remain hot and dry, with temperatures ranging between 27°C and 36°C.
From Sunday until Sept 17, rain is forecast in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib and Sargodha.
Khushab, Mianwali, Noorpur Thal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan are also expected to receive rainfall during the spell.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa warned of possible landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas and directed commissioners and deputy commissioners to remain on high alert.
He also cautioned that heavy rainfall could trigger urban flooding in major cities, particularly Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala and Faisalabad, while flash floods could occur in rain-fed streams and nullahs.
The health, irrigation, communication and works, local government and livestock departments have been placed on alert to respond to any emergency arising from the weather conditions.
The PDMA advised citizens to take precautionary measures, avoid weak or dilapidated buildings and refrain from unnecessary travel during thunderstorms and strong winds.
People have also been urged to seek shelter in safe places during lightning and keep children away from low-lying areas, accumulated rainwater and electricity poles.
