The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday issued a province-wide alert ahead of the second spell of monsoon rains, which is expected to begin on Sunday (July 19) and continue until July 24, bringing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds to most parts of the province.

According to the PDMA, the weather system is likely to produce intense rainfall over a short period, raising the risk of urban flooding and flash floods in several districts.

Heavy rain has been forecast for Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Jhang, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot and surrounding areas.

Rain is also expected in southern Punjab, including Noorpur Thal, Bhakkar, Mianwali, Layyah, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur.

The authority warned of urban flooding in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot and Multan, while flash flooding and high water flows are feared in Nullah Lai, Murree, Galiyat and other seasonal streams.

PDMA Director General Umar Abbas Mehla directed all commissioners, deputy commissioners and relevant departments to remain on high alert and ensure emergency preparedness.

The authority said district administrations had also been placed on alert on the instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The PDMA advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions and remain in safe places during thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds.

Parents have been urged to keep children away from low-lying areas, accumulated rainwater, electricity poles and exposed power lines to prevent accidents.

The authority also asked the public to adopt precautionary measures and contact the PDMA helpline 1129 immediately in the event of any emergency.