Punjab Braces for 10th Monsoon Spell as PDMA Issues Alert

The Punjab monsoon alert has been issued once again as the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warns of the 10th spell of heavy rainfall across the province. Starting Saturday and continuing through Tuesday, torrential downpours and thunderstorms are expected in multiple districts, raising fresh concerns about flooding and damage.

PDMA Issues Fresh Warning

The PDMA spokesperson confirmed that heavy rain is expected across upper, central, and southern Punjab. The authority urged residents to remain cautious, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas. Authorities are on standby, with rescue services directed to stay alert for emergency situations.

The spokesperson emphasized that urban flooding, overflowing drains, and possible river swelling could cause significant disruption if the predicted rainfall intensifies.

Areas Likely to Be Hit

The expected spell will affect a wide stretch of Punjab. Cities and districts listed include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum in the northern region. Rain is also forecast for Gujranwala, Lahore, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, and Mandi Bahauddin in central Punjab.

Southern Punjab districts including Okara, Sahiwal, Kasur, Jhang, Sargodha, Mianwali, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Rajanpur are also on high alert. This widespread pattern indicates that nearly the entire province will feel the impact of the 10th monsoon spell.

Read: Floods Trigger Wheat and Flour Price Surge Across Pakistan

Risks of Urban Flooding

In big cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan, drainage systems remain under pressure. Officials warn that even a few hours of intense rainfall could inundate roads, disrupt traffic, and damage property. Urban flooding has already troubled citizens during previous monsoon rounds, and the risk remains high.

Low-lying neighborhoods, particularly near river banks and stormwater drains, are most vulnerable. Authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy showers.

Impact on Agriculture

The timing of the 10th spell raises additional concerns for farmers. Standing crops of rice, cotton, and maize are highly vulnerable to excessive waterlogging. The PDMA and agriculture department fear that fresh rainfall could damage harvests, adding pressure on food supply and rural incomes.

Farmers have been asked to take precautionary measures to minimize losses, such as improving drainage in fields and securing stored produce.

Measures by Authorities

To prepare for the situation, PDMA has directed district administrations to ensure round-the-clock monitoring. Rescue 1122 teams have been placed on high alert, with equipment ready for evacuation operations.

Hospitals and health units have been instructed to remain prepared for emergencies. Municipal corporations have also been tasked with clearing drains and removing garbage that could block water flow during rain.

Lessons from Previous Spells

This year’s monsoon season has been relentless, with nine earlier spells already causing damage to homes, roads, and crops. The experience has highlighted gaps in drainage systems and emergency response.

Residents in areas like Sialkot, Narowal, and Multan recall recent flooding that damaged infrastructure and forced families to evacuate. The PDMA has promised stronger coordination this time to avoid repeat scenarios.

Climate Factor in Extreme Rains

Experts warn that climate change is intensifying monsoon cycles. Punjab has seen heavier-than-usual rains in recent years, stretching infrastructure beyond capacity. Rising global temperatures are fueling unpredictable rainfall patterns, leading to both droughts and floods in quick succession.

This 10th spell highlights the urgent need for long-term adaptation measures. Without stronger flood defenses and urban planning, the province risks annual cycles of destruction.

Public Safety Advisory

The PDMA has issued clear guidelines for citizens. Residents are advised to avoid traveling near rivers, canals, and bridges during heavy rainfall. Motorists should drive slowly and keep emergency numbers saved.

People living in mud houses or flood-prone localities have been told to shift to safer areas in advance. The authority also urged citizens to cooperate with rescue teams during any evacuation operations.

Economic Concerns

Beyond immediate safety, the financial cost of repeated rainfall is weighing heavily on Punjab’s economy. Damage to crops reduces farmer income and increases food inflation in markets. Urban flooding disrupts businesses, halts transport, and creates extra repair costs for both households and governments.

Economists warn that if such extreme spells continue, the provincial economy could face recurring shocks each monsoon season.

Preparing for the Days Ahead

With the 10th spell approaching, Punjab stands on edge once again. Officials, rescue teams, and citizens brace for possible challenges while hoping the rains will pass without major devastation.

The PDMA’s alert underlines the urgency of preparedness. For millions of residents across Punjab, the coming days will test resilience in the face of nature’s force.