PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a weather advisory warning of rain, strong winds and thunderstorms across large parts of the province from September 12 to 17, with occasional gaps.
According to the advisory issued on Friday, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said monsoon currents are penetrating the upper parts of the country, while a westerly wave is expected to enter the region during the weekend and strengthen on September 14.
Rain and thunderstorms, accompanied by isolated heavy downpours and hailstorms, are expected in Upper and Lower Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Buner, Malakand, Bajaur, Upper and Lower Kohistan, Kolai-Pallas, Battagram, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mardan, Swabi, Khyber, Mohmand, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, Orakzai, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, North Waziristan and South Waziristan.
The PDMA warned that landslides could occur in vulnerable areas of Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Battagram, Mansehra, Kohistan and Abbottabad.
Heavy rainfall may also trigger flash flooding in local streams and nullahs in several northern districts, particularly from September 14 to 17. Peshawar, Mardan and Swabi could face urban flooding in low-lying areas during the same period.
The advisory also forecasts a drop in temperatures across the province.
PDMA has directed district administrations to take precautionary measures, particularly in vulnerable communities, and ensure the availability of emergency resources. Authorities have been asked to monitor rivers, streams and seasonal nullahs, clear drainage systems, keep major roads open and ensure sufficient supplies of food, fuel and medicines.
Rescue 1122 teams have also been directed to remain ready for emergency response, while authorities have been advised to regulate traffic around vulnerable locations, tourist spots and potential landslide areas.
The PDMA urged tourists and travelers to exercise extra caution and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather. People have been advised to stay away from rivers, streams and nullahs, avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges, and refrain from trekking, hiking or camping during heavy rainfall.
Farmers and livestock owners have also been advised to take precautionary measures to protect crops and animals from strong winds, thunderstorms and heavy rain.
The general public has been urged to stay away from exposed electrical equipment and lines during rainfall and thunderstorms and to avoid allowing children near stagnant water, drainage channels and areas with open potholes.
The PDMA said the situation would be monitored round the clock through Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs). Citizens can share information about emergencies with the PDMA Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Emergency Operations Centre through toll-free helpline 1700.
