PDMA issues alert as rain, strong winds forecast across KP till April 9

PESHAWAR, Apr 06 (APP):The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert forecasting a fresh spell of rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms across most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from April 7 to 9.

According to PDMA, a strong westerly weather system is expected to enter the province and affect multiple regions. Rainfall with snowfall over mountains is likely in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Buner, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, and Abbottabad.

Similarly, rain and windstorms are expected in Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Charsadda, Swabi, Kohat, Kurram, Orakzai, Khyber, Bajaur, Mohmand, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and Tank.

The authority warned that heavy rainfall and hailstorms are also likely at various places on April 7 and 8.

PDMA cautioned that the ongoing weather conditions may trigger landslides in upper districts and cause swelling in streams and nullahs. There is also a risk of flash flooding in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Buner, Abbottabad, and Kohistan, while urban flooding may occur in low-lying areas of Peshawar, Mardan, and Nowshera.

Strong winds and hailstorms may damage weak structures, electricity poles, and solar panels, while standing crops across the province may also be affected. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures.

The authority has directed district administrations to ensure preparedness, including the mobilization of rescue teams and the availability of resources. Instructions have also been issued to keep major highways open, maintain traffic flow, and provide alternate routes where necessary.

Relevant departments have been asked to clear drainage systems to prevent urban flooding and take immediate precautionary measures.

Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay informed about weather conditions, while the general public has been urged to keep away from floodwaters, streams, and vulnerable locations during heavy rains.

A spokesperson of PDMA said that the Emergency Operation Center remains fully functional, and citizens can report any untoward incident by calling helpline 1700, the statement added.