More rain and thundershowers, accompanied by gusty winds, are expected across the upper and central parts of the country from Aug 17 to 21, with occasional breaks, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said, citing the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
According to the Met Office, monsoon currents are continuing to penetrate the upper parts of the country and are expected to persist over the coming days.
It added that a westerly wave was likely to enter the upper parts of the country on Aug 17.
In its advisory, the Punjab PDMA forecast rain and thundershowers, accompanied by gusty winds and isolated heavy falls, in several parts of the province from Aug 16 to 21, with occasional breaks.
The affected areas include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal.
Meanwhile, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and D.G Khan are also expected to receive rain and thundershowers on Aug 20 and 21.
The PDMA warned that heavy rains could cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore from Aug 17 to 20. Landslides could also occur in vulnerable areas of Murree and Galyat during the forecast period.
“Tourists and travellers are advised to remain cautious during the forecast period,” it said, urging farmers to plan their crop-related activities in view of the weather conditions and take care of their livestock.
The PDMA also issued guidelines to district administrations to ensure preparedness and formulate effective risk-mitigation plans.
It directed district authorities to ensure sufficient staffing round the clock for effective coordination and response, and to coordinate with the PDMA and all relevant departments to ensure a unified and prompt response.
Moreover, they were directed to ensure the accurate and timely dissemination of information on safety measures and evacuation plans through electronic and social media.
The PDMA also advised authorities to ensure the timely desilting and clearance of all drains and the pre-positioning of heavy earth-moving machinery at choke points to facilitate a rapid response.
“Motorway Police shall ensure regular traffic advisories, timely updates on road conditions and guidance to travellers for safe travel,” it said, advising the deployment of additional staff and resources in high-risk areas.
It further advised Rescue 1122 to remain on alert and ensure the pre-positioning of search-and-rescue teams and necessary equipment.
