WASA on high alert after Lahore rain; PMD predicts more showers nationwide

Lahore’s Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has been placed on high alert following rainfall in the city, with field teams mobilised to ensure quick drainage of accumulated water.

On the instructions of the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Lahore, all disposal stations have been made fully operational and machinery has been activated to manage the situation. Authorities have directed staff to keep all major highways, underpasses and low-lying areas clear for traffic.

Officials have also instructed teams to ensure the immediate drainage of rainwater and operate disposal stations at full capacity. Field teams have been told to remain active and vigilant throughout the rain spell.

The DC Lahore said efforts are being made to ensure that citizens do not face difficulties during the rainfall. Residents have also been advised to stay away from electric wires and poles for safety.

STRONG WINDS, THUNDERSHOWERS EXPECTED

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast partly cloudy conditions with strong winds and thundershowers in several parts of the country on Thursday. Specifically, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Islamabad and the Pothohar region are likely to experience rain at a few places, with hailstorms also possible in some areas.

Going region by region, the PMD said that in Islamabad and its surrounding areas, partly cloudy weather with strong winds and thundershowers is expected, with chances of hail in isolated locations.

In Punjab, rain accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers is likely in Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Mianwali, Jhelum, Gujrat, Lahore, Gujranwala, Murree and Galiyat, while other districts are expected to remain dry.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain with gusty winds and thundershowers is expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Bajaur, with the possibility of hail at a few locations.

Meanwhile, Sindh and most districts of Balochistan are expected to experience hot and dry weather.

Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to remain partly cloudy with chances of rain accompanied by strong winds and thundershowers.