Fifth Monsoon Spell: Widespread Rain Forecast for Lahore, Punjab

Fifth monsoon spell will bring widespread rains, thunderstorms and strong winds across Lahore and most parts of Punjab from August 12 to 15. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Punjab, several districts are likely to receive rain during this period. From the night of August 12 through August 15, wind, thunderstorms and rain are expected in Murree, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Kasur, Sheikhupura and Nankana Sahib. Rawalpindi and other areas of the Potohar region may experience strong winds, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall from the evening or night of August 13 until August 15. Rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds are also expected in Sargodha, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Layyah, Bhakkar, Noorpur Thal, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan from the night of August 12 to August 15. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has warned of possible urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Multan. There is also a risk of landslides in Murree, Galiyat and other hilly areas, while flash flooding may occur in rain-fed streams and drains. PDMA Director General Muhammad Saif Anwar Jappa asked commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain vigilant and ensure necessary preparations in advance. He said all relevant departments and institutions, including health, irrigation, construction and communications, local government and livestock departments, have been placed on alert. Authorities in major cities have also been directed to take precautionary measures against possible urban flooding. The PDMA chief urged citizens to exercise caution during severe weather and avoid staying in weak or dilapidated buildings, noting that building collapses have caused fatalities during previous monsoon spells. Citizens were advised to avoid unnecessary travel during strong winds and thunderstorms and stay indoors or in other safe locations. People should also avoid open areas during lightning and storms. Parents were particularly advised to keep children away from accumulated rainwater, electric poles and exposed power lines.