Punjab is expected to see dust storms and rain; authorities issue a notice

Punjab is likely to see dust storms and rains including Lahore in the wake of a weak weather system affecting the region, providing respite from recent period of extreme heat.

The Meteorological Department said on Saturday Lahore registered a minimum temperature of 26 degrees Celsius while the mercury is predicted to increase to around 34 degrees Celsius. During the day, dust laden winds with showers are predicted in numerous other districts of Punjab including Lahore.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned the province about heavy winds, rain and possibly hailstorms.

Rainfall is predicted in most districts of Punjab including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Faisalabad, Jhang, Okara, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad, the official said.

Rain has also been anticipated for Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Khushab, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Kot Addu and Mandi Bahauddin.

The PDMA also warned of rain in Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Jhang and adjacent districts.

After the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, all the commissioners and deputy commissioners of the province had been put on notice, said PDMA Director General. “The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Lahore has put its operational staff on alert to deal with any eventuality of rain.

Officials have warned people to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open areas during lightning activity and take precautions against strong winds and dust storms. Farmers have been asked to make essential preparations in view of changing weather conditions, while tourists heading to northern areas have been advised to exercise caution.