Heavy rain forecast across Punjab on Ashura

A fresh spell of monsoon rains has entered Punjab, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting heavy showers in Lahore and several other districts across the province on Ashura (Muharram 10).

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for possible rainfall on Ashura, warning of intense downpours in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Sargodha, and Faisalabad.

Experts have predicted that the current monsoon system could persist until July 10, potentially raising water levels in rivers and streams.

Rescue 1122 teams have been placed on full alert, while the Disaster Response Force has been instructed to remain fully equipped and ready. Citizens are urged to follow safety precautions and contact the PDMA helpline (1129) in case of emergencies.

Meanwhile, after a hot and humid day in Lahore, the provincial capital is expected to receive heavy rain with thunder and lightning late at night. Temperatures in the city are forecast to range between 30°C and 37°C.

The Met Office has warned that rainfall of varying intensity—ranging from light to heavy—is expected in multiple areas of Punjab due to the re-entry of a rain-bearing monsoon system. Strong winds and further downpours are likely to continue in the coming days.

Residents of Lahore have expressed concern over the slow pace of infrastructure development projects, warning that incomplete work could lead to severe disruptions during heavy monsoon rains.

Read More: NDMA issues new alert for heavy rain, storms across country

Overnight, heavy rain lashed the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, prompting the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) to issue a high alert and declare a rain emergency amid fears of water accumulation in low-lying areas.

Saidpur received the highest rainfall with 80 mm recorded, followed by 40 mm at PMD, 20 mm at Shamsabad, and 15 mm at Pirwadhai.

According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), flash floods and heavy rainfall have claimed 64 lives and injured 117 people nationwide over the past week.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been the worst-hit region, with 23 fatalities, including 10 children. In Punjab, 21 people lost their lives, while Sindh and Balochistan reported 15 and five deaths, respectively.