LAHORE (Kashmir English): The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has put out a province-wide weather alert warning, saying there will be thunderstorms, rain, and strong winds in several districts from Monday night through May 23, and it is urging both officials and citizens to stay on high alert, especially as the weather keeps switching up.
In its advisory, rain is expected with gusty winds and thunderstorm activity in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Faisalabad, Jhang, Okara, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad.
It also says weather activity may show up in Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Khushab, and Mandi Bahauddin, while separate forecasts are pointing to showers in Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, and nearby areas.
PDMA Director General Umar Javed said all commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab have been told to make sure preparedness is in place, in line with directions from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Authorities also advised people to avoid open places during thunderstorms and to find shelter when lightning strikes.
Farmers, meanwhile, have been asked to take precautionary steps to guard crops and livestock from possible hailstorms and strong winds, and tourists going toward the north have been told to be careful due to slippery roads, plus landslide risk.
The public has been reminded to call the PDMA emergency helpline 1129 if a weather-related emergency happens. The newest advisory is coming as weather authorities keep warning about unusual climate patterns across Punjab during the ongoing pre-monsoon period.
Earlier this month, PDMA had cautioned that Punjab could face above-normal rainfall, windstorms, and urban flooding between May and July, especially in northern and northwestern districts.
