Punjab PDMA issues flood alerts for 9th monsoon spell

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab announced on Thursday that the ninth monsoon spell is set to begin across the province from Friday.

Due to forecasted heavy rainfall, the PDMA has issued a flood alert for rivers and streams in Punjab.

According to the PDMA's prediction, thunderstorms and heavy rains will impact several districts throughout Punjab.

The ninth spell of the monsoon will last until September 2, bringing substantial rainfall to multiple regions.

Rain is anticipated in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Gujrat, and Sialkot, with Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and Rajanpur also likely to experience rainfall.

Nabil Javed, the Punjab Relief Commissioner, has instructed all commissioners and deputy commissioners to remain vigilant and on high alert during this period.

On Thursday, the main rivers and their tributaries were already in high flood conditions due to previous rains, with the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers flowing at very high flood levels.

The Relief Commissioner has issued a warning about the potential overflow of streams and nullahs in major cities as a result of the monsoon rains.

Officials have been advised to remain on the ground, and alerts have been sent to various departments including health, irrigation, communications, local government, and livestock.

Residents are urged to take precautionary measures during adverse weather conditions, avoid congregating near rivers, and refrain from recreational activities near water bodies.

Additionally, in case of storms or high winds, people are advised to stay indoors and limit travel.

In other weather updates, the Meteorological Department has predicted hot and dry conditions across most of the country, with some rain expected in Islamabad and nearby areas.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will remain dry, while Sindh is expected to experience persistent hot and humid weather.