The National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rain, hailstorms, and strong winds in several districts of Islamabad and Punjab on April 18 and 19.
The alert was issued in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), cautioning residents about possible severe weather conditions.
According to the advisory, heavy rainfall and hail are expected in parts of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, and Jhelum. The NDMA also identified districts including Faisalabad, Jhang, Khushab, Mianwali, Lahore, Sahiwal, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura as potentially vulnerable to strong winds and hailstorms.
The NDMA has warned that the adverse weather may lead to power outages, infrastructure damage, and an increased risk of accidents. “There is also a danger of significant crop damage due to hailstorms and heavy rain,” said an NDMA spokesperson.
Farmers have been advised to take preemptive measures to safeguard their crops. Residents are urged to avoid standing near weak buildings and trees during strong winds and to stay updated through the NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app.
On the other hand, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather advisory warning of continued thunderstorms and light rain across Punjab until April 20.
The alert follows a deadly spell of inclement weather that claimed the lives of nine citizens and left five others injured.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, two fatalities were reported in Layyah and Kot Addu due to lightning strikes, while two houses were partially damaged by the windstorm. In light of the recent casualties, the PDMA has urged residents to exercise caution during weather fluctuations.
Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has instructed all commissioners, deputy commissioners, and rescue teams to remain on high alert. PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that both the Provincial Control Room and District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated and are monitoring the situation round the clock.
“All personnel, including machinery from Rescue 1122 and other emergency services, should be on standby,” DG Kathia stated. He also urged citizens to stay indoors during stormy conditions and avoid going near electric poles or exposed wiring.
“Stay in safe shelters to protect yourselves from lightning. Never go out under an open sky when thunderstorm activity is expected,” he warned. The PDMA DG reminded the public that lightning killed 30 people in Punjab during April last year.
