LAHORE: A new wave of monsoon rain has reached Punjab, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting heavy showers across several districts, including Lahore, on Ashura (the 10th of Muharram).
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a warning, expecting strong downpours in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Sargodha, and Faisalabad.
Officials believe the current monsoon system may continue through July 10, potentially increasing water levels in rivers and streams.
Rescue 1122 has been placed on high alert, and the Disaster Response Force has been told to stay fully equipped and prepared. Citizens are advised to remain cautious and call the PDMA helpline (1129) if needed.
In Lahore, after a day marked by hot and humid weather, heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning is expected later tonight. Temperatures are forecast to stay between 30°C and 37°C.
The Meteorological Department has also predicted light to heavy rainfall in many areas across Punjab, warning of strong winds and continued wet weather over the next few days.
Residents in Lahore have raised concerns about ongoing development work and incomplete infrastructure projects, fearing major disruptions if the city faces heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, Rawalpindi and Islamabad were hit by heavy rain overnight. In response, the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) declared a rain emergency due to the risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
Saidpur recorded the highest rainfall at 80 mm, followed by 40 mm at the PMD office, 20 mm in Shamsabad, and 15 mm in Pirwadhai.
Nationwide, flash floods and intense rainfall have claimed 64 lives and left 117 injured over the past week, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has suffered the most, with 23 deaths, including 10 children. Punjab reported 21 fatalities, while Sindh and Balochistan recorded 15 and five deaths, respectively.