PDMA forecasts rain, dust-thunderstorms in Punjab districts until Saturday

LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Punjab, has issued a warning predicting dust-thunderstorms and rainfall in various districts of the province from Monday night to Saturday.

As per an advisory issued by the PDMA on Monday, a weather system of westerly origin would impact upper parts of the country from the night of May 18 until May 23.

The provincial authority further predicted rain, windstorm and isolated hailstorm in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Khushab, Bhakkar, Layyah, Sargodha, Mianwali, Faisalabad, Jhang, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Okara, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot and Narowal with occasional breaks.

Director General PDMA, Umar Javed informed that warnings had been issued to all commissioners and deputy commissioners of the province to ensure prompt responses in case of any untoward situation.

Strong winds and lightning may cause damages to fragile structures like electricity poles, hoardings and solar panels, the advisory further mentioned.

The PDMA ordered the district administrations to ensure that emergency operation centers remained staffed round the clock, coordination among departments was maintained and additional staff was deputed where needed.

Further, motorway police and the local administrations were instructed to issue traffic advisories to the commuters.

He also directed tourists travelling to northern areas to remain updated about weather conditions and to adopt precautionary measures during travel.

The PDMA also urged citizens to contact its helpline at 1129 in case of emergencies.