The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a rain and flood alert across Punjab, effective from today through August 7, as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast under the sixth monsoon spell, reported 24NewsHD on Monday.
--Chenab and Jhelum rivers at flood risk--
The PDMA spokesperson warned that due to heavy rains in upper catchment areas, moderate to high flood levels may develop in the Chenab River and Jhelum River beginning August 5.
--Flash flooding in low-lying areas--
“Flash flooding is feared in low-lying areas as heavy downpours are expected in Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Jhelum, Attock, Chakwal, Murree, Galiyat, Mianwali, Narowal, Gujrat, Sialkot, Toba Tek Singh, Mandi Bahauddin, and Dera Ghazi Khan,” the PDMA spokesperson stated.
--Landslide warning for tourists in Murree--
Landslides may occur in the mountainous terrain of Murree due to intense rain. “Tourists and travellers should remain extremely cautious during this period,” said PDMA.
--Emergency control rooms on high alert--
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has directed local authorities to keep staff and machinery on high alert, particularly in flood-prone areas.
WASA and municipal bodies are instructed to prevent water stagnation in low-lying areas. “Officials must stay in the field during the rain and supervise response efforts,” Kathia said. Citizens are urged to report emergencies by calling the PDMA helpline 1129.
--Karachi to experience light rain today--
Meanwhile, Karachi remains under cloudy skies with light showers expected today.
The maximum temperature is predicted to hover between 31°C and 33°C, while winds from the southwest are blowing at 15 to 18 km/h and humidity levels have reached 70%.
Reporters: Ali Ramay and Rimsha Ismaeel