As Punjab is predicted to experience heavy rains, PDMA issues a flood warning

As Punjab is predicted to experience heavy rains

On Thursday, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a warning about moderate to intense rain, strong winds, and hailstorms in several parts of the state.

“As intimated by the Pakistan Meteorological Departement (PMD), moderate to heavy rain-wind/thunderstorm (snowfall over the hills) is expected in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore and Kasur from February 17 to 21,” the PDMA stated in a statement.

In the meantime, during February 18 and 19, Multan, Bhakkar, Kot Addu, Layyah, Rajanpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan are predicted to have light to moderate rain, wind, and thunderstorms.

The PDMA has advised the rescue officials and authorities to “remain high alert and have sufficient emergency response personnel and equipment [at their disposal] during the forecasted period,” directing the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to ensure their preparedness and take all necessary measures.

In addition, the PDMA has alerted travelers to the possibility of landslides and flooding and has requested advice and support from the local law enforcement, rescue services, and administration in the event of an emergency.

In the meantime, moderate to heavy rains are expected in Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Islamabad, and Balochistan, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

From February 18 to 20, there is a chance of heavy rain or snowfall, which could disrupt and close roads in Murree, Galiyat, Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli. The NDMA stated that during the projected period, “landslides in Upper KP, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan cannot be ruled out.”