PDMA issues alert as Punjab braces for final monsoon spell

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued an alert across Punjab on Friday as the ninth and final spell of monsoon rains is likely to begin in several districts from September 12 to 17.

A PMDA spokesperson said that the incoming system is expected to affect multiple regions across the province.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), meanwhile, said that a westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of the country over the weekend, likely intensifying by September 14.

Director General (DG) PDMA, Saif Anwar Jappa, warned of potential urban flooding in major cities, including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad and also raised concerns regarding flash flooding risks in rainwater drains.

The authorities also issued an alert of landslides in hilly locations, including Murree and the Galiat region.

In response to the forecast, DG Saif Anwar directed all commissioners and deputy commissioners in Punjab to maintain vigilance and ensure preparedness.

Under the influence of this weather system, Rawalpindi, Jehlum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock and other areas are expected to receive rain.

The forecast said that Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, Kasur, Okara, Nankana Sahib, and Sargodha are expected to receive rain from September 14 to 17.

During the said days, downpours are also expected in Khushab, Mianwali, Noorpur Thal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, and surrounding areas.