NDMA Issues Rain Alert for Pothohar, Upper KP

News Desk

Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has issued an alert over the possibility of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the Pothohar region and upper parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) from September 14 to 17.

According to the alert, heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms is expected in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Murree, Galyat and adjoining hilly areas.

The forecast rainfall could trigger localized flooding in low-lying areas, urban centers, streams and nullahs, the NEOC warned.

Heavy rainfall is also expected across several upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts, including Dir, Swat, Buner, Malakand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Swabi, Mardan and Peshawar, as well as surrounding areas.

The NEOC assessment models indicate that a rapidly developing weather system could produce intense rainfall over short periods.

The authority warned that heavy rain in mountainous areas may cause sudden increases in water flow in streams and nullahs, while also raising the risk of localized flooding and landslides.

The public has been advised to avoid low-lying areas, streams and water channels during periods of heavy rain and refrain from unnecessary travel.

Residents in vulnerable areas have also been urged to remain vigilant because of the potential for flooding and landslides.

The NDMA advised citizens to follow the latest weather and emergency advisories issued by local administrations, the Pakistan Meteorological Department and the NDMA.

The public has also been encouraged to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for verified weather updates, information on potential risks and recommended precautionary measures.