Punjab on high alert as new monsoon spell approaches

The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a province-wide alert as a new spell of monsoon rains is expected to begin on the evening of August 14 and continue until August 18.

The PDMA spokesperson highlighted that thunderstorms and heavy showers are particularly anticipated in South Punjab between August 15 and 18.

Significant rainfall is expected across the divisions of Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Gujrat.

In response, the DG PDMA has alerted relevant provincial administrations, instructing them to remain vigilant in line with the Chief Minister’s directives.

With concerns about potential urban flooding, the administration has been urged to finalize all necessary precautionary measures. Commissioners, DCs, WASA, the Irrigation Department, Rescue services, Civil Defense, and other relevant agencies have been instructed to stay on high alert as the PDMA control room monitors the situation around the clock.

DG Irfan Khatia has urged the public to adhere to government instructions, avoid old buildings, poles, and areas prone to lightning, and contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of emergencies.