Rain alert: PDMA predicts showers, thunderstorms across Punjab, KP

Rain alert: PDMA predicts showers, thunderstorms across Punjab, KP

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued provinces-wide rain alert, forecasting widespread showers and thunderstorms across most districts from the evening of July 11 through July 12.

According to the PDMA, the wet spell is expected to affect several parts of Punjab over the next two days, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions.

The forecast includes Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, Murree, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Sargodha, Khushab, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Narowal.

Rain is also expected in Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Faisalabad, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, Sahiwal, Okara, Pakpattan, Kasur, and surrounding areas.

In southern Punjab, rainfall is likely in Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Vehari, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Layyah,and Bhakkar.

On the other hand, KP-PDMA has issued a weather alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning of strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall across several districts on July 11 and 12. All relevant departments have been directed to remain on high alert and ensure emergency preparedness.

According to the PDMA, heavy rainfall could trigger landslides in Chitral, Swat, Upper and Lower Dir, Shangla, Mansehra, and Kohistan. The authority has also warned of possible flash floods in rivers and streams across the Malakand and Hazara divisions.

In addition, urban flooding is likely in Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, and Abbottabad due to intense rainfall.

A PDMA spokesperson warned that strong winds and lightning could damage vulnerable houses, electricity poles, and standing crops. District administrations, rescue teams, emergency services, and heavy machinery have been instructed to remain fully prepared to respond to any emergency.

The PDMA has advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution near rivers, streams, and mountainous areas during the forecast period. The public has also been urged to stay away from exposed electricity wires, storm drains, and unsafe structures during heavy rain.

Farmers and livestock owners have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect their crops and animals. Meanwhile, the PDMA’s emergency control room will remain operational 24/7, and citizens can report emergencies by calling the 1700 helpline.

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