ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert in response to predictions of severe weather conditions, including heavy rains, thunderstorms, and snowfall, that are expected to affect various regions of Pakistan in the coming days. The NDMA has urged citizens to prepare for potential disruptions and take necessary precautions.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), widespread rainfall, accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms, is forecasted across several provinces, with the most significant impacts anticipated within the next 12 to 24 hours. The NDMA has particularly warned of flash floods in low-lying areas and possible urban flooding in cities, advising citizens to avoid unnecessary travel.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, areas including Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mardan, and Kohat are expected to experience heavy rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms. The risk of flash floods in some regions remains high. In Punjab and Islamabad, cities such as Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sialkot, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala will also encounter thunderstorms, with strong winds and heavy rains expected to continue from April 6 to 9. In Balochistan, major cities like Quetta, Zhob, Loralai, and Gwadar will witness rain and high winds, with hailstorms possible in some areas.
Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir are forecast to receive snowfall, particularly in higher-altitude regions such as Skardu, Hunza, and Murree. This may impact road traffic and disrupt travel plans for those heading to or from mountainous areas.
The NDMA warns that the combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds may damage infrastructure, trees, and electricity lines. Urban flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, remains a significant concern, along with the risk of landslides in mountainous regions.
The NDMA has advised the public to exercise caution while driving on slippery roads, as rain is expected to create hazardous conditions, especially in mountainous and low-lying areas. In regions expecting snow, such as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, snowfall may lead to road blockages and traffic disruptions. Travelers heading to these areas are encouraged to check weather conditions before setting out.
Citizens are urged to stay indoors during storms, avoid seeking shelter under trees or near weak structures, and steer clear of flooded areas. Farmers are advised to take the necessary measures to protect their crops from the upcoming weather. The NDMA has activated its emergency response centers and instructed all provincial and district authorities to remain alert and prepared for any eventuality. Local authorities have been directed to deploy rescue teams and establish relief centers in flood-prone areas.
The public is encouraged to follow weather updates via the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile app for real-time information. The meteorological department and NDMA have also warned that the severe weather may lead to power outages and impact daily life, urging everyone to stay vigilant and prepared for sudden weather changes.
Read also: PMD predicts rain and cloudy weather in KP
