Punjab on High Alert as PDMA Warns of Thunderstorms, Strong Winds and Hail

• Provincial alert issued across Punjab districts
• Strong winds, lightning and hailstorm risk identified
• Emergency response systems activated
• Public advised to follow safety guidelines
• Previous storm incidents caused casualties

Lahore: The Punjab government has issued an alert across the province in view of the weather situation, while the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned of a possible series of thunderstorms, wind and rain.

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab, a western weather system will affect various districts of Punjab from the night of May 18 to May 23, during which strong winds, rain and hailstorms are likely in some places.

According to the administration, instructions have been issued to the commissioners and deputy commissioners in all districts of the province to ensure immediate response in any emergency situation. It has also been directed to keep all emergency operation centres active and further strengthen communication between the relevant departments.

The advisory issued by the department states that weak structures may be affected due to strong winds and lightning, while there is a possibility of damage to urban infrastructure such as electricity poles, billboards and solar systems.

The district administration has been directed to deploy additional staff and resources to deal with possible emergencies, especially in areas where the risk is high.

The traffic police have also been directed to provide timely awareness to passengers and ensure guidance during travel so that accidents can be avoided.

PDMA Director General Omar Javed has urged citizens to avoid going to open places and take precautionary measures during storms or thunderstorms. According to him, farmers should also take immediate steps to protect their crops so that possible damage can be reduced.

He added that tourists travelling to the northern areas should be constantly aware of the weather conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.

Last week, heavy storms and rains in Punjab resulted in casualties in various accidents, after which the administration is taking stricter measures this time than before.

According to officials, the situation is being continuously monitored, and all institutions are ready to respond immediately in case of any emergency.