The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has directed district administrations across Punjab to remain alert in view of a forecast for rain in most districts from today until October 7.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad. Rain has also been forecast for Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh and Faisalabad.
PDMA Director General Saif Anwar Jappa said there is a risk of landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas. In view of the situation, commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province have been directed to remain alert.
He said district administrations had also been alerted to take necessary precautionary measures in accordance with the directives of the Punjab chief minister.
The PDMA has urged citizens to take precautionary measures during bad weather and avoid staying in dilapidated or mud-built houses.
According to the PDMA director general, citizens should stay in safe places and avoid unnecessary travel in case of strong winds or storms. They have also been advised to remain indoors or in safe locations during thunderstorms and avoid going into open areas.
He urged parents to take special care of children and prevent them from going near accumulated water in low-lying areas, electricity wires and poles.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, citizens can contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of any emergency.
Earlier, the PDMA alerted district administrations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa about the possibility of rain, thunderstorms and strong winds in different parts of the province from Monday night through October 7.
According to the PDMA, the weather system is expected to affect several upper districts, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra and Abbottabad. Rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in these areas. The authority said the weather activity could lower daytime temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius.
The PDMA has directed district administrations to remain vigilant and complete precautionary measures to deal with any weather-related emergencies. Officials have been instructed to closely monitor rivers, streams and rainwater channels, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.