The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert, forecasting further rain accompanied by thunderstorms across upper and central districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from the night of August 12 to August 15.
According to the PDMA, rain is expected in Chitral, Lower and Upper Dir, Swat, Shangla, Buner, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra and Abbottabad. Mardan, Swabi, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Khyber, Mohmand and Kurram are also likely to receive rainfall.
The authority warned of possible landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas, while low-lying areas of Mardan and Swabi face a risk of urban flooding.
PDMA has directed district administrations to take precautionary measures, continuously monitor rivers, streams and drainage channels, and keep roads and drainage systems clear.
The authority advised residents to remain in safe places during heavy rain and thunderstorms and urged tourists to avoid unnecessary travel. People have also been advised to stay away from rivers and streams and avoid hiking, trekking and camping during severe weather.
The PDMA warned against attempting to cross floodwater on foot or by vehicle and urged people to stay away from exposed electrical wires and appliances during thunderstorms. Children should also be kept away from rivers, streams, pits and drainage channels.
All relevant departments have been directed to maintain round-the-clock monitoring of the situation. The PDMA Emergency Operations Centre is fully operational, while the public can report any untoward incident by calling 1700.
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