Recent heavy rainfall across Punjab has sparked concerns about potential flooding, with water levels in dams steadily increasing.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has reported that Rawalpindi received the highest rainfall, recording 107mm, followed by Lahore with 25mm, Faisalabad with 21mm, and Sahiwal with 11mm.
These rains have led to a continuous rise in water levels in rivers, dams, and canals throughout the province.
Mangla Dam has now reached 65% of its capacity, while Tarbela Dam is nearing 90%. The PDMA has also noted increasing water levels in Indian dams, further heightening fears of flooding.
The province is on high alert as more heavy rainfall is expected within the next 24 hours, particularly in Lahore. The ongoing monsoon spell is predicted to last until August 12, prompting the PDMA to urge all relevant departments to stay vigilant.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has instructed deputy commissioners across Punjab to prepare for any emergency situations that may arise due to the heavy rains.
District emergency operation centers and the provincial control room have been placed on high alert, and rescue agencies, including 1122, have been directed to keep their machinery and personnel on standby.
Urban flooding, particularly in major cities, is a significant concern. Local administrations have been advised to remain on high alert to manage potential flood situations and ensure public safety.
Residents of Lahore and Kasur found relief from the summer heat as light rain fell across various parts of the cities on Saturday.
In Lahore, areas such as Gulberg, Ferozepur Road, Cantt, Defence, Faisal Town, Johar Town, Model Town, and Canal Road experienced light showers, lowering the temperature to a pleasant 27 degrees Celsius.
The Met Department has forecast that Lahore’s weather will remain cloudy with intermittent rain likely for the next two days, offering further respite from the heat.
In Kasur, rain accompanied by gusty winds made the weather more pleasant but also caused several electricity feeders to trip, leading to temporary power outages in some areas.
