The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued an alert for the sixth spell of monsoon rains across the province, forecasting rainfall in most districts from the night of August 16 to August 21.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad. Rainfall is also forecast in Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal.
Meanwhile, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan may receive rain on August 20 and 21. The ongoing monsoon rains across the country have significantly changed the situation in rivers, dams and water reservoirs. Tarbela Dam has reached its maximum conservation level, while the water level in Mangla Dam has risen to 68%. Continued rainfall has increased river flows, raising concerns about possible flooding in several areas.
On the other hand, low-level flood conditions are currently being reported at Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma and Taunsa along the Indus River. Relevant authorities are closely monitoring the situation, while further increases in water flows are possible if rainfall continues. According to the Meteorological Department, low-level flooding is possible in the Ravi and Chenab rivers over the next 24 to 48 hours. The department has also warned that moderate flooding could occur in tributaries and connected rivers from August 17 to 19.
The increased inflow of water from upper areas due to continued rainfall is considered a key factor affecting river conditions. Relevant departments have been directed to maintain precautionary measures and closely monitor the situation. The Meteorological Department has forecast rain, strong winds and thunderstorms in Islamabad, Kashmir and several parts of Punjab during the next 24 hours. Heavy rainfall has been forecast in several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Mardan, Swat, Abbottabad and Haripur. Rainfall may also increase water flows in the upper reaches of the Indus River.