Monsoon spell predicted, flood alert issued

The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for more monsoon rains across the province.

The new spell of monsoon rains is expected to begin on Sunday and continue till August 29.

The rains are expected in Lahore, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Sahiwal and Gujrat divisions. Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Bahawalpur divisions are at risk of flash flooding due to heavy rains.

Due to heavy downpour in the Sulaiman and Kirthar range, there is a fear of flood in the hill torrents.

The PDMA issued instructions to commissioners, DCs, WASA, irrigation department, rescue, civil defence and other departments to remain alert.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said an alert has been issued to the administration across the province regarding the weather situation.

He said the administration should take special measures in view of possible monsoon rains on the occasion of Chehlum, avoid gatherings at dilapidated rooftops and buildings.