LAHORE (Dunya News) - The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the eighth spell of monsoon rains, forecasting rainfall across most districts from August 29 to September 5.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal and Gujrat.
Heavy rainfall is also forecast for Lahore, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali, Noorpur Thal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal and Pakpattan.
The PDMA warned of possible urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat and Sialkot, while Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas could face landslides. Flash flooding is also possible in streams and nullahs.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to remain alert, saying district administrations had also been placed on alert on the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
He directed authorities in major cities to take precautionary measures in advance to deal with the risk of urban flooding. The health, irrigation, communications and works, local government and livestock departments have also been alerted.
The PDMA chief urged citizens to take precautionary measures during bad weather, avoid staying in dilapidated or mud-built houses and move to safer locations during strong winds and storms.
Citizens were also advised to avoid unnecessary travel, seek shelter during lightning and keep children away from low-lying areas, standing water, electricity wires and poles.
The PDMA further advised citizens not to venture into open areas during thunderstorms and stormy weather. In case of an emergency, citizens can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.