Punjab on Alert: PDMA Issues Flood Warning Ahead of Heavy Rainfall Forecast

ISLAMABAD: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has issued a proactive warning regarding the forecasted moderate to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and hailstorms expected to hit various areas of the province. Additionally, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has predicted similar weather patterns in Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Islamabad, and Balochistan.

According to the PDMA, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has indicated that the weather phenomenon will affect several regions in Punjab from February 17 to 21. These areas include Murre, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Faisalabad, Jhang, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur. Additionally, light to moderate rain, wind, and thunderstorms are expected in Multan, Bhakkar, Kot Addu, Layyah, Rajanpur, and Dera Ghazi Khan between February 18 and 19.

In response to these forecasts, the PDMA has directed the District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to ensure preparedness and take relevant measures. They have urged rescue officials and authorities to remain on high alert and have sufficient emergency response personnel and equipment at their disposal during the forecasted period. Furthermore, travellers have been warned about the risks of flooding and landslides, with guidance and assistance sought from local administration, police, and rescue services in case of emergencies.

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Similarly, the NDMA has highlighted the potential impacts of heavy rain and snowfall in GB, KP, Islamabad, and Balochistan. The forecasted weather conditions may lead to road closures in various areas, including Murree, Galiyat, Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch, and Haveli from February 18 to 20. Additionally, the possibility of landslides in Upper KP, Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan cannot be ruled out.

Despite the potential challenges posed by the weather, the coordinated efforts of the PDMA, NDMA, and other relevant authorities demonstrate a proactive approach to ensure public safety and minimize the impact of adverse weather conditions on communities across Pakistan.