Rain alert issued as Lahore, Punjab districts brace for wet spell

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms in Lahore and several districts of Punjab between June 11 and June 13. According to the Met Office, a western weather system is expected to enter the upper parts of the country on June 11 and remain active until June 13. Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea are also likely to move into northern and central regions during the same period, enhancing rainfall activity. Under the influence of this system, intermittent dust storms, gusty winds, and rain-thunderstorms are expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Okara, Kasur, Sargodha, Khushab, Bahawalpur, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Rahim Yar Khan and several other areas of Punjab. Isolated locations may also experience heavy downpours and hailstorms. The PMD warned that strong winds, hail and lightning could damage vulnerable infrastructure such as solar panels, electricity poles and advertising billboards. Heavy rainfall may also trigger urban flooding and flash floods in Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Lahore and Faisalabad. Farmers have been advised to take necessary precautions to protect their crops, while tourists and commuters are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert during adverse weather conditions. To ensure effective disaster management, authorities have directed district administrations and relevant departments to maintain round-the-clock staffing at emergency operation centres, strengthen coordination with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), and ensure timely dissemination of safety information through electronic and social media platforms. Motorway Police have been instructed to provide regular traffic advisories and updates on road conditions, while additional personnel and resources are to be deployed in vulnerable areas. Rescue 1122 tea