Rain forecast for most Punjab districts till 14th

LAHORE: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Sunday issued a province-wide weather advisory, predicting rain, strong winds and thunderstorms in most districts between October 10 and 14.

A westerly weather system is predicted to hit the upper portions of the country on Saturday, which would bring rain to numerous parts of Punjab, said a representative of PDMA.

Rain, high winds and thunderstorms are anticipated on October 10, 11, 13 and 14 in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Kasur, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal and Mianwali.

Faisalabad, Khushab, Bhakkar, Sargodha, Jhang and Toba Tek Singh may also see intermittent rain, high gusts and thunderstorms on October 10, 11 and 13.

Director General PDMA Saif Anwar Jappa has advised the divisional commissioners and deputy commissioners of the whole province to keep cautious especially in Murree, Galiyat and other steep areas where landslides can take place.

The body added that district administrations have been put on notice as per the orders of the chief minister.

The health, irrigation, communications and works, local government and livestock departments have all been advised to be ready for any weather related emergency.

Public encouraged to take safeguards . . .

Jappa asked the inhabitants to take precautions during bad weather and not stay in decrepit or mud buildings.

People have been warned to shelter in safe areas during severe winds and storms and to avoid needless travel.

Residents are also advised to stay indoors or in suitable shelter during thunderstorms and to avoid open spaces to lessen the risk of lightning strikes.

Parents have been asked to take great care of the youngsters and keep them away from low lying places, electricity lines and power poles.

In case of emergency customers could use the PDMA’s emergency helpline 1129, the PDMA added.

The authorities have asked the public to monitor official weather updates and safety advisories during the anticipated timeframe.