heavy downpours
PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, forecasting heavy rains, thunderstorms and strong winds across most districts from July 19 to 23. According to the PDMA advisory released issued here on Friday, intense monsoon activity was expected to bring heavy downpours accompanied by gusty winds and lightning. The authority has warned of a high risk of landslides in the northern and hilly districts, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra and Abbottabad. The PDMA also cautioned that hill torrents and seasonal streams are likely to swell, raising the threat of flash floods. Urban flooding is possible in low-lying areas of Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Swat and Abbottabad due to sustained rainfall. Officials said strong winds and lightning could damage weak structures, electricity poles, billboards and standing crops. In response, the PDMA has directed all district administrations, Rescue 1122 and relevant departments to remain on high alert. Emergency machinery, relief supplies and rescue teams have been ordered to be pre-positioned in vulnerable areas. The authority advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay away from rivers and streams. Farmers and livestock owners have been urged to take precautionary measures to protect crops and animals. The public has been asked not to cross inundated roads, bridges and rain channels during rainfall. The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre is fully functional. Citizens have been asked to report any emergency to the PDMA toll-free helpline 1700. DLP Report
