PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather warning in view of forecasted rain and snowfall in the upper districts of the province from Sunday night to Tuesday.
According to the PDMA, the Meteorological Department has identified a new series of westerly winds from January 25 to 27 that may affect most areas of the province.
According to the PDMA statement, heavy rain and snowfall are likely in the upper districts of the province, including Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, and other upper areas, while heavy snowfall may also occur at some places, leading to a significant drop in temperature.
On the other hand, heavy rain with thunder has been predicted in the lower and plain areas of the province, including Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera and Kohat. According to the PDMA, there is a risk of slippery roads and closures in the upper areas of Naran, Kaghan, Kalam and Chitral due to rain and snowfall.
The PDMA has warned that there is also a risk of landslides and avalanches in the upper districts due to continuous rain and snowfall, in view of which instructions have been issued for continuous monitoring of rivers and storm drains in sensitive areas. In view of the current weather situation, the PDMA has directed all district administrations, Rescue 1122 and related institutions to remain on high alert and ensure preventive measures.
Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel in the upper and snowy areas and to exercise caution. The PDMA has also directed citizens to stay in safe places during wind, thunderstorms and snowfall, while farmers and livestock keepers have been advised to take necessary measures to protect crops and animals. According to the PDMA spokesperson, the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is fully functional, and the public can contact PDMA’s free helpline 1700 for any emergency or information.
