Rain brings relief to Punjab, heat persists in other areas
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• Heavy showers in Lahore; dust storms damage mango orchards in south Punjab
• PMD forecasts more rain, thunderstorms across the province
LAHORE: A powerful weather system swept across several parts of Punjab on Saturday, bringing much-needed rain to Lahore, while triggering dust storms, strong winds, and intermittent rainfall in parts of South Punjab.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms at isolated locations in Azad Kashmir, northeastern and eastern Punjab, and the Potohar region. It has warned that heavy rain and hailstorms may also occur in parts of the province.
The Met Office has also predicted hot and dry weather in most parts of the country. Intense heat is expected in the plains of Sindh, eastern and southern Balochistan, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In Lahore, heavy rainfall brought a welcome change in weather across city, ending days of intense heat and making conditions pleasant.
According to data shared by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA), different parts of Lahore received varying amounts of rainfall. The Airport area recorded 40 mm, Nishtar Town 48.5 mm, Johar Town 37.5 mm, Lakshmi Chowk and Mughalpura 30.5 mm each, Upper Mall 29 mm, Tajpura 27 mm, Samanabad 22.5 mm, and Jail Road 20.5 mm. Other areas, including Gulshan-i-Ravi, Iqbal Town, Pani Wala Talab, Defence Road, and Saggian, also received moderate showers.
Isolated light rainfall was recorded in several localities, including Farrukhabad (19 mm), Gulberg (20 mm), and Shadipura (0.5 mm).
Rescue 1122 reported that two people were injured when a wall collapsed onto a rickshaw in Wapda Town. One of the injured was shifted to Jinnah Hospital for treatment.
Meanwhile, in South Punjab, the powerful weather system triggered dust storms, strong winds, and intermittent rain, causing widespread damage.
Mango orchards in Khanewal, Multan, Kot Addu, Lodhran, and Muzaffargarh suffered losses as fruit was damaged and trees were uprooted. The storms also disrupted traffic and damaged property in several areas.
Notably, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) had already warned of above-normal temperatures between May 25 and May 31, highlighting the volatility of the ongoing weather pattern.
Lahore Deputy Commissioner, retired Capt Ali Ijaz, also visited Mazang and Lakshmi Chowk, where he was briefed on drainage operations. He directed WASA staff to remain on high alert and ensure the swift clearance of rainwater. He also emphasised the uninterrupted functioning of sewerage systems and the prompt resolution of public complaints.
Separately, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed all relevant departments to remain on high alert during heavy rains. She ordered effective drainage management, continuous monitoring of waterways, and strict safety measures at vulnerable locations and construction sites. She also instructed authorities to ensure that open manholes are properly covered and that public safety arrangements are strengthened across the province.
“All relevant institutions must remain active, vigilant, and responsive to ensure the safety of citizens and protect life and property across Punjab,” the chief minister said.
Published in Dawn, May 31st, 2026
