PESHAWAR: Pakistan has warned of landslides and avalanches in the hilly areas of northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in the next 24 hours, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said on Monday, advising the public to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.

In a weather forecast issued by the PDMA KP, the authority warned that snowfall may cause road closure and slippery conditions in the northwestern Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Buner, Malakand, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla and Galliyat districts in the next 24 hours.

“Possibility of landslides/avalanches in hilly areas of the province during the [24 hours] period,” PDMA said. 

“Travelers and tourists are advised to remain extra cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during the period.”

It also warned of foggy conditions in patches at scattered places over Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Charsadda Swabi and D.I. Khan districts during late nights and early mornings in northwestern Pakistan. 

Pakistan, which contributes less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, is recognized among countries that are most vulnerable to climate change.

Scientists say rising temperatures are making South Asia’s monsoon rains more erratic and intense, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides in mountainous regions such as KP and northern Gilgit-Baltistan.

Authorities in the past have urged people to avoid northern areas or exercise caution in travel when weather conditions are expected to deteriorate in winter season. 

At least 21 people, including nine children, died in freezing temperatures after being stuck in their vehicles in the Pakistani hill station of Murree in January 2022 when the roads became impassable.