Rain is likely to occur in various upper and plain areas of the country in the next few days. The National Disaster Management Authority has issued an alert for relevant institutions and citizens till September 30 in view of the weather situation.
According to the NDMA, thunderstorms may occur in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and Islamabad due to the intensification of the westerly wind system.
In case of heavy rainfall in the hilly areas, there is a risk of sudden rise in water levels in the rivers.
Special attention has been paid to the situation in Astore, Skardu, Rondo, Ghanche and Shigar of Gilgit-Baltistan. Neelum Valley, Haveli, Poonch and Sidhanoti of Azad Kashmir are also among the areas at risk of possible flooding.
Rain is likely in various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Swat, Dir, Buner, Malakand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra and Abbottabad. Thunderstorms may also occur in other areas.
The impact of weather change can also be felt in many cities in Punjab. In addition to the Potohar areas, there is a risk of urban flooding with rain in Lahore, Gujranwala, Gujarat, Faisalabad, Okara, Sahiwal and Jhang. Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Murree and Galiyat are also likely to experience heavy rains, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Rain with strong winds and gusty winds is expected in Khushab, Sargodha, Chiniot, Bhakkar, Layyah and Dera Ghazi Khan. Hailstorm may also occur at some places. It is important for citizens to monitor the local situation while travelling in such weather.
The NDMA has directed the district administration and relevant agencies to keep emergency response teams ready. Continuous monitoring of the condition of rivers, streams and other waterways during the rains has also been emphasized.
Citizens have been advised to avoid going near rain drains and mountain drains in particular. Do not even try to cross flooded roads. People living in low-lying areas need to be aware of the weather conditions and instructions of the local administration.
The purpose of caution in the face of a weather alert is to reduce the potential disruption to daily life and the risk of flash flooding.
Avoiding unnecessary travel during the rain and following government guidelines can help keep citizens safe from difficult situations.
