Weather Advisory: Thunderstorms and Rain Forecasted for Punjab Until April 20
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather advisory warning residents of continued thunderstorms and light rain across Punjab until April 20. The alert follows a deadly weather spell that resulted in the loss of nine lives and left five others injured.
According to PDMA, two fatalities were reported in Layyah and Kot Addu due to lightning strikes, and two houses were partially damaged by strong winds. In light of the recent casualties, the PDMA has urged the public to remain cautious during fluctuating weather conditions.
Read More: More Rain, Thunderstorm Expected In Islamabad
Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has instructed all commissioners, deputy commissioners, and rescue teams to stay on high alert. PDMA’s Director General, Irfan Ali Kathia, confirmed that both the Provincial Control Room and District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated, monitoring the situation around the clock.
“All personnel, including machinery from Rescue 1122 and other emergency services, should be on standby,” said DG Kathia. He also emphasized that citizens should stay indoors during stormy conditions and avoid going near electric poles or exposed wiring.
“Stay in safe shelters to protect yourself from lightning. Never go out under an open sky when thunderstorms are expected,” he warned, reminding the public that lightning had killed 30 people in Punjab during the same month last year.
Special precautions have been advised for children, urging parents to keep them away from weak or abandoned structures. In case of emergencies, the public is encouraged to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.
Heavy Rain, Hailstorms, and Strong Winds Expected in Islamabad and Punjab on April 18–19
The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rain, hailstorms, and strong winds in several districts of Islamabad and Punjab on April 18 and 19.
The advisory indicates that heavy rainfall and hail are expected in parts of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, and Jhelum. Additionally, districts including Faisalabad, Jhang, Khushab, Mianwali, Lahore, Sahiwal, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura may experience strong winds and hailstorms. Residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions.