LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has issued a critical weather alert, warning of intense monsoon rainfall expected to hit various districts across the province on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, beginning July 5, according to a report.
A PDMA spokesperson said that districts in southern and central Punjab are especially at risk and could face serious weather-related disruptions, urging residents and authorities to stay alert and prepared for emergencies.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has advised organizers of Muharram processions to enforce strict safety protocols.
He cautioned against holding gatherings on unstable rooftops and stressed the importance of keeping a safe distance from electric poles and wires to avoid accidents.
Residents living near rivers and streams have also been advised to avoid unnecessary crossings, particularly in hilly areas like Dera Ghazi Khan, which face an increased risk of flash flooding due to the forecasted rain.
“Heavy downpours are expected to begin as early as July 5,” the PDMA warned, adding that preparations must be made in advance to minimize the potential damage.
Separately, the Punjab government has already enforced Section 144 across the province from June 27 to July 6, 2025 (1st to 10th of Muharram) due to security concerns.
The order limits public gatherings and prohibits new or altered Muharram processions unless previously approved by authorities.
The advisory comes amid a troubling rise in rain-related casualties. In the last 24 hours, 18 people, including 11 children, lost their lives, while 57 others were injured in incidents caused by heavy rainfall. Many of the deaths occurred due to collapsing roofs and walls of old buildings.
The PDMA also reported 27 houses damaged across the affected districts. In separate incidents, lightning strikes in Khanewal and Okara killed two people, and two children were electrocuted in Mandi Bahauddin, underscoring the urgency of taking safety measures during the ongoing monsoon season.