A monsoon weather system continues to prevail across Punjab, including Lahore, with rainfall expected to persist until August 5.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Lahore may receive light to heavy rainfall on Saturday. However, a temporary reduction in rain activity has led to a rise in temperatures.
The weather department has forecast a minimum temperature of 29°C, while the maximum temperature is expected to reach 36°C in the provincial capital.
In anticipation of possible rainfall, the Managing Director of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has instructed operational staff to remain on high alert and ensure the timely drainage of rainwater.
Earlier, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a weather alert for several districts of Punjab, including Lahore, warning that rainfall is expected to continue until August 5.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, water levels in most of Punjab’s rivers remain within the normal range. The Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers are flowing at normal levels. However, low-level flooding has been reported in the Indus River at Kalabagh and Chashma.
Water flow in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan also remains normal. The river flow at Kalabagh has been recorded at 320,000 cusecs, while Chashma is receiving 274,000 cusecs. Moderate flooding has been reported at Wazirabad in Nallah Palkhu, where the water flow has reached 3,500 cusecs. Low-level flooding has also been observed in Narowal’s Basantar Nallah and Nallah Bein.
The PDMA spokesperson stated that the fourth spell of monsoon rains is expected to continue until August 5. Due to anticipated rainfall in the upper catchment areas, water levels in the eastern rivers and adjoining streams may rise further.
There is also a risk of urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Multan. In addition, Murree, Galiyat, and other mountainous regions face the possibility of landslides.
Authorities have advised residents living near riverbanks and low-lying areas to move to safer locations immediately if necessary. The Punjab government has established flood relief camps in affected areas, where essential facilities, food, clean drinking water, and medical assistance will be provided.
The Director General of the PDMA has urged citizens to take all necessary precautions in light of the current weather conditions and flood situation. People are advised to avoid recreational activities near rivers, canals, and streams, and to ensure that children are kept away from bathing or swimming in these water bodies, as conditions can become dangerous without warning.
Read more: RLNG soars to record level after 32% price increase
