PESHAWAR: Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province warned on Saturday roads leading to some of its most popular tourist destinations could be closed due to rain and snowfall, urging authorities and travelers to remain alert as adverse weather conditions intensify.
The alert comes as Pakistan’s northern and northwestern regions continue to experience cold weather, with intermittent spells of rain and snowfall disrupting daily life and increasing the risk of landslides and road blockages.
Last month, an avalanche struck a house in the province’s Chitral district, killing at least nine people and injuring a child.
“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is likely to receive rain with thunder from tomorrow night until Tuesday, while snowfall is expected in mountainous areas,” the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said in a statement.
“In view of the prevailing weather conditions, the PDMA has directed all district administrations and relevant institutions to remain alert and take precautionary measures,” it added.
The PDMA said rain and snowfall could lead to road closures and slippery conditions in upper areas including Naran, Kaghan, Kalam and Chitral, advising tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution.
It said rain is also expected in several areas of the province, including Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Charsadda, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Kurram, Kohat, Hangu, Karak, Bannu, North and South Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, Tank and Dera Ismail Khan.
The authority added that district administrations, rescue services and other relevant departments have been placed on high alert, while residents were advised to remain in safe locations during storms, snowfall and strong winds.
