The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an updated advisory for all districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, warning that thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy hail at some places are likely in most parts of the province on April 13 and 14.
According to the report, wind and rain are likely to damage crops and fragile buildings in plain areas including Peshawar, Swabi, Mardan and Nowshera, while in upper districts like Swat, Chitral and Mansehra, communication roads may be affected due to the threat of landslides.
The administration has directed tourists to avoid unnecessary travel to mountainous areas and has ordered all relevant agencies to remain alert so that immediate action can be taken in case of any emergency. Citizens have been advised to stay away from power poles and storm drains during bad weather and to contact helpline 1700 for emergency assistance.
It is to mentioned here that earlier to this heavy rains and weather changes have wreaked havoc in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since the beginning of April, forcing the provincial government to declare an emergency in several districts. According to recent reports, more than 40 people have died so far, including a large number of women and children, while more than 100 people have been injured. The rains have damaged more than 600 houses across the province, many of which were destroyed, with the highest loss of life and property, especially in the tribal districts and Malakand division.
The main reason for this situation is the powerful westerly wind that has swept the entire region, which has not only caused flooding but also blocked important highways due to landslides in the mountainous areas.
According to the Meteorological Department and PDMA, these unusual rains are the result of climate change, due to which more than normal rainfall is being recorded in the month of April. The administration is currently busy with rehabilitation work in the affected areas, however, the new alert issued for April 13 and 14 has created further challenges in relief activities.
Read also: Met Office forecast rain in several parts of country in coming days
