The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a rain alert across the province, warning of widespread rainfall in most districts from Thursday night until October 7.
Authorities have cautioned citizens to remain careful and cooperate with local administrations during the spell.
According to PDMA, westerly winds have entered the upper areas of Punjab, triggering the likelihood of rainfall across various regions.
The forecast includes Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum. Showers are also expected in Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, and Wazirabad.
In addition, rain has been predicted in Sialkot, Narowal, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Jhang, Nankana Sahib, and Toba Tek Singh. Southern districts including Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar, Layyah, Multan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan are also likely to receive rainfall.
The PDMA warned that rainfall in Murree, Galiyat, and Rawalpindi could increase the flow of water in rivers and canals. The authority has urged relevant departments to stay vigilant to prevent flooding risks.
An official statement said that alerts have been issued to commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab. Departments including Local Government, Agriculture, Irrigation, Health, Forest, Livestock, and Transport have also been placed on high alert.
DG PDMA emphasized that citizens should fully cooperate with district administrations and rescue agencies during the rain spell. “People are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety instructions,” the statement added.
On Wednesday, the PDMA had issued a rain alert for the upper areas of the province, warning that heavy stormy rains were expected in most districts from October 5 to 7. Officials have cautioned that the rainfall could increase the flow of water in rivers and canals, raising concerns of flooding.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, the upcoming spell of intense rains is likely to hit most districts in Punjab. The rains are also expected in the upper reaches of rivers, which could lead to a surge in water levels.