PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds across most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from July 19 to July 23.
According to the PDMA, heavy downpours are expected to affect several parts of the province, raising the risk of flash floods in mountainous streams and seasonal nullahs. PDMA has advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel during the forecast period.
The PDMA warned of possible landslides in the districts of Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra and Abbottabad.
Urban flooding is also expected in low-lying areas of Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Swat, and Abbottabad due to intense rainfall.
The authority cautioned that strong winds and lightning could damage vulnerable structures, electricity poles, billboards, and standing crops.
In response to the forecast, the PDMA has directed all district administrations, Rescue 1122 and other relevant departments to remain on high alert. Authorities have also been instructed to ensure the pre-positioning of emergency machinery, rescue teams, and relief supplies in vulnerable areas to enable a swift response to any emergency.
The PDMA advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly to mountainous regions, and to stay away from rivers, streams, and seasonal waterways during the adverse weather conditions.
Farmers and livestock owners have also been urged to take precautionary measures to protect crops and animals from potential damage caused by heavy rains and strong winds.
The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains fully operational. Citizens have been advised to report any emergency immediately by calling the PDMA’s toll-free helpline 1700, according to the authority’s spokesperson.
