PESHAWAR: Authorities in Pakistan’s northwest warned on Friday heavy rain and strong winds expected over the coming days could trigger landslides and urban flooding in several districts of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province.
KP’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said a weather system forecast to bring thunderstorms and rain from Saturday through the morning of March 16 could affect most districts of the province, prompting local administrations to prepare for possible emergencies.
Heavy rain and snowfall in upper districts have in the past increased the risk of roof collapses, blocked roads and landslides, leading to injuries and loss of life in remote mountainous areas.
“Upper Kohistan, Lower Kohistan, Kolai-Palas, Shangla, Battagram and Torghar could face landslides due to heavy rainfall,” the PDMA said in a statement.
“Swabi, Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera and Peshawar may face urban flooding due to rain and strong winds,” it added.
Rain is also forecast in upper districts including Upper and Lower Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Buner and Malakand, with snowfall expected in the mountains, while thunderstorm activity could affect Mansehra, Abbottabad and Haripur.
The PDMA said it had directed district administrations to remain prepared for emergencies.
“All districts have been instructed to keep rescue teams, machinery and emergency services on alert,” the statement said.
The agency also advised tourists and travelers to avoid unnecessary movement in mountainous areas or locations prone to landslides.
“Citizens have also been advised to stay away from open areas, weak structures, electricity poles and signboards during strong winds,” it added.
Authorities said temperatures across the province could drop by three to four degrees Celsius as the weather system moves through the region.
