PESHAWAR: Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a weather advisory, warning heavy monsoon rains, strong winds, thunderstorms and possible landslides across upper and central parts of the province until August 21. According to the advisory, a fresh westerly wave is interacting with monsoon currents, resulting in an active weather system over the province.
Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) also forecast rain, wind and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy falls, in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Mardan, Swabi and Peshawar from the evening of August 17 to August 21.
Southern districts, including Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat and Dera Ismail Khan, are likely to receive rain on August 20 and 21.
The PDMA warned of increased risks of landslides, urban flooding and damage to structures and crops during the forecast period.
It said that mountainous districts, particularly Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra and Abbottabad, face a heightened risk of landslides, while low-lying areas of Mardan, Swabi and Peshawar may experience urban flooding from August 17 to 20.
The advisory further said that strong winds and lightning could also damage standing crops, electricity poles, billboards and solar panels.
The PDMA directed the district administrations to take precautionary measures, including clearing drainage systems, keeping key road networks operational and ensuring adequate stocks of food, fuel and medicines.
General public has also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, trekking and camping in hilly areas and maintain a safe distance of at least 20 feet from rivers and streams.
The advisory also urged the people to avoid swimming in open water bodies during this period.
All relevant departments have been directed to maintain round-the-clock monitoring through Emergency Operations Center. The public can contact the PDMA helpline at 1700 in case of emergencies.