PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has predicted heavy rain coupled with thunderstorms and snowfall in the mountainous areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from December 20 to 22.
According to PDMA KP, rain and snowfall are likely in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Kolai Palas, Malakand, Buner, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Abbottabad, Haripur, Kurram, Khyber, Bajaur and Mohmand.
Rain is also expected in Swabi, Mardan, Nowshera, Peshawar, Charsadda, Kohat, Hangu, Orakzai, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, and North and South Waziristan.
PDMA warned that roads may become slippery or closed due to snowfall in Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla and Galiyat. The authority also cautioned about the risk of landslides and avalanches in hilly regions.
In view of the weather situation, the Provincial Emergency Operation Centre has issued alerts to all district administrations and relevant institutions to take precautionary measures. Instructions have been given to ensure drainage systems remain functional, secure billboards, and continuously monitor rivers, streams and rainwater drains.
PDMA advised tourists and travellers to carry sufficient water, food, medicines and warm clothing during snowfall. The public has been urged to stay away from electricity poles, billboards and weak structures during strong winds or thunderstorms.
