Punjab issues fresh monsoon warning as heavy rain forecast through Sunday

Pakistan's Punjab disaster management authority has warned of heavy monsoon rain across much of the country's most populous province through Sunday.

The warning raises the risk of flash floods, urban flooding and rising river levels in the coming days.

How long will the monsoon rain continue in Punjab?

The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said widespread rainfall was expected to continue through July 27. Heavy downpours are forecast for major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala and Sialkot, along with surrounding districts.

Rain is also expected in southern districts including Multan, Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Layyah and Bhakkar. Heavy showers are forecast in central districts such as Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, Okara, Kasur, Sahiwal and Pakpattan, the agency said.

Why is Punjab on high alert for monsoon rain?

The warning comes as Pakistan remains at the peak of its annual monsoon season, when torrential rainfall frequently triggers flooding, disrupts transport and damages homes and infrastructure. More than 20 people have died in Punjab during the current monsoon spell, which began this month. PDMA Director General Umar Abbas Mela directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across Punjab to remain on high alert. He said district administrations had activated emergency preparedness measures in line with instructions from Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The authority warned that continued rainfall could raise water levels in rivers and tributaries across the province, increasing the risk of flash floods in seasonal streams. Low-lying areas of major cities could also experience urban flooding. Provincial departments responsible for health, irrigation, communications, local government and livestock have been placed on alert to respond to any emergencies, the PDMA said.

What safety measures has the PDMA advised for residents?

Authorities urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather, stay away from rivers, streams and low-lying areas, and seek shelter during thunderstorms. The agency also advised people not to remain in old or structurally weak buildings, noting that the collapse of dilapidated and mud-built homes accounts for many monsoon-related fatalities.

Parents were urged to keep children away from standing water, exposed electricity cables and power poles. The public was also advised to avoid open areas during lightning storms. The PDMA asked residents to report emergencies through its 1129 helpline.