MNN (Web Desk); The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a new flood advisory as the province braces for the seventh wave of monsoon rains expected to begin around August 13.
In its Monday advisory, the PDMA warned that the upcoming rainfall could cause rising water levels in the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, as well as in nearby streams and tributaries. The authority cautioned that heavy rains may lead to flooding in low-lying and riverine areas.
Commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all relevant departments have been directed to stay on high alert to respond swiftly to any emergencies.
Punjab PDMA Chief Irfan Ali Kathia urged local officials to ensure the timely evacuation of residents and livestock from vulnerable riverbanks. He also reminded the public that swimming in rivers, canals, and other water bodies is strictly prohibited during this critical period. Citizens are advised to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 for emergencies.
The recent monsoon season caused widespread destruction across Pakistan, with urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides resulting in over 300 deaths and numerous missing persons, alongside significant infrastructure damage.
Gilgit Baltistan, a region known for its tourist attractions, was also severely affected by flash floods and landslides. Last month, Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan reported that at least 10 people were killed and four injured due to intense monsoon-triggered flooding.
Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Gilgit Baltistan to distribute compensation cheques to families affected by the floods. He announced an immediate Rs4 billion relief package aimed at restoring damaged infrastructure. During his visit, the Prime Minister personally handed over Rs1 million compensation cheques to the families of the deceased, offering prayers for the victims and speedy recovery for the injured. He emphasized solidarity with the flood victims and highlighted Pakistanās vulnerability to climate change.
Addressing the ceremony, PM Shehbaz Sharif called for the establishment of an advanced early warning system to better manage future disaster risks.
The Meteorological Department forecasts that over the next 12 hours, most plains across the country will experience hot and extremely humid conditions. However, rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected in parts of northeastern Punjab, the Pothohar region, Islamabad, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and adjoining hilly areas.
During the last 24 hours, most parts of Pakistan remained hot and humid, with rainfall recorded in Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Attock, and Bannu. The highest rainfallā86 millimetersāwas reported in Lahoreās Pani Wala Talab area.
According to the Meteorological Department, the highest temperatures were recorded in Nokundi and Dalbandin, reaching 44 degrees Celsius.
