The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said on Thursday that rain and snowfall are expected in several parts of Punjab from December 20 to 22 due to a western weather system.
According to the advisory, rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in Rawalpindi, the Potohar region, Mianwali, Bhakkar, Noorpur Thal, and Layyah. Authorities expect rain with snowfall in Murree and the Galiyat during the same period.
The PDMA also forecast cloudy weather with drizzle in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sargodha, Khushab, Faisalabad, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Jhang, and Toba Tek Singh.
The authority warned that snowfall could disrupt road conditions in Murree and the Galiyat and advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel.
Earlier, Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafiq attended a ceremony at PDMA headquarters related to snowfall forecasts for Murree and winter preparedness. He said authorities are making arrangements to support district administrations and ensure a timely response to emergencies.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the control room is monitoring the situation around the clock and coordinating with district administrations and line departments. He said the PDMA is providing winter tents, snow chains, search and rescue equipment, and other supplies to Murree.
The PDMA said authorities have set up facilitation centers for tourists in Murree and directed Rescue 1122 and district administrations to remain alert. It advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, use fog lights during low visibility, and contact the PDMA helpline at 1129 in emergencies.
