Men walk along a flooded road with their belongings, following rains and floods during the monsoon season in Sohbatpur, Pakistan August 28, 2022. REUTERS/Amer Hussain NO RESALES. NO ARCHIVES.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a significant flood warning for eastern rivers and associated nullahs, cautioning that widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected from September 1 to 3.
According to the advisory, a strong monsoon low over northwest Rajasthan combined with a westerly wave could trigger torrential downpours across Punjab.
The heaviest impact is expected in the upper catchments of the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, and Chenab rivers, particularly upstream of Ganda Singh Wala.
Officials warned that the forecasted rainfall may generate very high to exceptionally high flows in the Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab rivers, along with their tributaries. This could also lead to urban flooding in Lahore, Gujranwala, and Gujrat divisions.
The department has urged federal and provincial authorities, including the NDMA, PDMA, and irrigation departments, to remain on high alert and ensure strict monitoring of flood-prone areas.
Authorities said that timely preparations and preventive measures will be critical in minimizing the impact of the predicted floods on vulnerable communities.