LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a formal alert ahead of the pre-monsoon spell set to sweep across Punjab beginning Friday evening, warning of strong winds, dust storms, and rainfall across multiple regions until June 23.
According to PDMA officials, northern and central districts of Punjab — including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, Jhelum, and Gujranwala — are likely to experience the first wave of showers, accompanied by gusty winds and possible dust storms. Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Sargodha, Jhang, and Mianwali are also expected to witness similar weather conditions during the three-day period.
Southern Punjab will not be spared either. The districts of Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, and Bahawalnagar have been forecast to receive moderate to heavy rainfall between June 21 and June 23, the alert said.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that the approaching rainfall would provide much-needed relief from the persistent heatwave that has gripped the province for several weeks. “We expect a significant drop in temperature in most areas following the rain, which will help reduce the health risks associated with extreme heat,” he said.
The PDMA has instructed local administrations to remain on high alert and ensure that drainage systems are cleared in urban areas to prevent urban flooding, particularly in low-lying zones. Emergency services have been directed to stay vigilant and ready to respond to any weather-related disruptions.
Citizens are advised to monitor weather updates regularly, avoid unnecessary travel during thunderstorms, and secure outdoor items to prevent damage from high winds. The advisory also warned farmers to take precautions to protect crops and livestock from the potential impact of sudden heavy showers.
The pre-monsoon activity marks the early signs of the 2025 monsoon season, which the Meteorological Department has predicted will bring above-normal rainfall to the region over the coming months.
