The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a province-wide flood alert, warning that rising water levels and heavy rainfall could trigger flooding between July 20 and July 24. Authorities have placed all concerned departments on high alert as forecasts indicate possible river flooding, flash floods and urban inundation across several parts of the province.
Read more : Fresh monsoon spell to bring widespread rain across Punjab
According to the PDMA, water levels are expected to rise in the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi and nearby rivers, with low to high-level flooding likely at Marala on the Chenab River. Moreover, flood warnings have also been issued for the Ravi River and several Chenab tributaries, including the Basantar, Deg, Aik, Palkhu, Bhimber, Halsi and Dora rivers.
The authority further warned that hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan could experience flash flooding, while heavy rainfall may cause urban flooding in Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Sargodha, Okara, Sahiwal, Bahawalnagar and Rawalpindi divisions. Officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert and closely follow weather updates throughout the forecast period.
Read more : PMD warns of flood risks in northern mountains
Meanwhile, PDMA has directed commissioners, deputy commissioners, WASA authorities and other relevant departments to complete precautionary measures before the expected rainfall. Rescue 1122 teams have been instructed to remain fully prepared, while emergency control rooms will operate around the clock to respond quickly to any developing situation.
Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia also instructed local administrations to maintain adequate fuel supplies for rescue operations, keep the public informed and arrange timely evacuation of residents and livestock if necessary. In addition, authorities have been asked to ensure flood relief camps are equipped with food, clean drinking water and other essential facilities, while citizens have been advised to follow official safety instructions and contact the PDMA helpline 1129 during emergencies.