Lahore, August 11, 2025 – The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has announced that Punjab is bracing for the seventh spell of monsoon rains, set to begin on August 13, 2025.
Authorities have issued a flood alert across the province, warning of possible river overflows and inundation of low-lying areas.
In its advisory, the PDMA cautioned that heavy monsoon showers could significantly raise water levels in the Sutlej, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, along with their tributaries and smaller streams. The advisory urged commissioners, deputy commissioners, and all concerned departments across Punjab to remain on the highest alert, ensuring that rescue and relief resources are ready for rapid deployment.
Punjab PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has specifically instructed local administrations to facilitate the safe evacuation of residents and livestock from vulnerable riverbank areas. He reminded the public that swimming in rivers, canals, and other water bodies is strictly prohibited during the monsoon emergency period. Citizens have been advised to call the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of any emergency situation.
The upcoming spell follows a devastating monsoon wave earlier this season that caused severe flooding in multiple parts of Pakistan, claiming over 300 lives, leaving several missing, and inflicting heavy damage on infrastructure. Urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides were reported in both urban and rural regions.
Gilgit Baltistan, a key tourist destination, was particularly affected, with flash floods and landslides killing at least 10 people and injuring four others last month. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during his visit to the region, distributed Rs1 million compensation cheques to the families of the deceased and announced a Rs4 billion relief and restoration package.
Speaking at the ceremony, the prime minister stressed that Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change and called for establishing an advanced early warning system to better prepare for future disasters. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting flood-hit communities and accelerating infrastructure restoration to reduce the impact of extreme weather events in Punjab and beyond.