The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert (KPK Rain Snowfall Alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, predicting rain and heavy snowfall in the northern areas from January 18 to January 21, 2025.
Residents and local authorities are advised to prepare for possible disruptions and prioritize safety during this time.
Regions Likely to Be Affected:
According to PDMA, the following areas are expected to experience intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall on mountainous terrains:
- Upper Districts: Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Batgram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Malakand, and Buner.
- Tribal Districts: Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, and Waziristan.
- Other Areas: Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Bannu, Karak, and Kohat.
Precautionary Measures by PDMA:
PDMA has advised district administrations to take necessary precautions to manage potential risks. Key directives include:
- Ensuring the availability of heavy machinery for clearing snow and debris.
- Alerting residents, particularly in vulnerable regions, to avoid unnecessary travel.
- Disseminating weather updates and safety guidelines in local languages.
Safety Tips for the Public:
- Avoid risky areas: Stay away from electric wires, old buildings, signboards, and billboards during heavy rain or wind.
- Farmers: Plan agricultural activities according to the weather forecast to minimize crop damage.
- Tourists: Refrain from visiting high-altitude regions without checking weather conditions.
Instructions for Tourists and Residents:
In sensitive areas, tourists and local residents are encouraged to:
- Stay updated on weather conditions.
- Adopt precautionary measures to ensure their safety.
- Contact the PDMA helpline at “1700″ for information before planning trips to tourist destinations.
The PDMA Emergency Operation Center is fully operational to assist in case of any emergency. Citizens are requested to report incidents by calling the toll-free helpline “1700”.
Message from PDMA:
Director General PDMA emphasizes that all relevant institutions remain vigilant and work towards maintaining road connectivity.
In case of road blockages, alternate routes should be arranged to facilitate traffic flow.
By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, we can reduce the risks associated with adverse weather conditions.