Heavy rains, Cloudbursts Alert Issued for Upper Punjab by PDMA

The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned people about heavy rains and cloudbursts expected in parts of upper Punjab over the next 24 hours. This alert covers several districts, including Murree, Rawalpindi, and Sialkot.

PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said that the current monsoon spell is stronger than before. He said northern districts may see heavy rainfall and even cloudbursts. People living in these areas and local authorities have been asked to stay alert and take safety measures.

In the past day, Murree, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur have already seen rain. The PDMA report also mentioned that the Indus River is experiencing low-level flooding at places like Tarbela and Taunsa. Medium flooding has been reported at Kalabagh and Chashma. The Sutlej River is also facing low-level flooding at Ganda Singh Wala. However, the Chenab, Jhelum, and Ravi rivers are stable with normal water levels.

DG Kathia shared updates on major dams. Tarbela Dam is nearly full, at 98 percent capacity. Mangla Dam is at 68 percent, and Indian dams hold around 70 percent capacity. He reminded people to be careful and prepare for more rain during this monsoon season.

So far, there have been no new reports of injuries or damage in the last 24 hours. But since January 2025, rain-related accidents in Punjab have caused 164 deaths, 582 injuries, damage to 216 homes, and the loss of 121 livestock.

People are advised to stay tuned to weather updates and follow instructions from authorities to stay safe.