Punjab is set to witness fourth and relatively intense spell of monsoon rain, starting from today.

The spell is expected to continue till July 25. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued an alert, warning severe weather conditions and also expects flooding

According to the PDMA, heavy rains have been predicted in various districts including Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Jhang and Mianwali. Heavy rains are also expected in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, Jhelum and Gujranwala, which has increased the risk of water accumulation in low-lying areas and flooding in local rivers.

The Director General of the PDMA has warned that this monsoon series is much stronger than the previous spells, and there is a possibility of an unusual increase in the flow of water in the rivers. The flow of the Ravi, Jhelum, Sutlej and Chenab rivers is likely to increase.

According to the PDMA report, medium-level flooding has been recorded in the Indus River at Taunsa, while low-level flooding is present at Tarbela, Kalabagh and Chashma.

District administrations across the province have been put on alert to deal with the emergency situation. Instructions have been issued to rescue agencies, flood control centers and other relevant departments to prepare for any possible emergency.

The PDMA has appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel, avoid going near rivers and canals, and follow the instructions of the local administration to avoid loss of life and property.