NDMA Issues Alert for Potentially Severe Weather Conditions

Islamabad: National Disaster Management Authority, through its National Emergencies Operation Center, has issued a warning regarding potentially severe weather conditions expected over the next 12 to 24 hours. According to Radio Pakistan, the alert indicates that thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and strong winds are anticipated in several regions, with snowfall likely in the northern hilly areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's districts including Chitral, Swat, Dir, Mansehra, and Peshawar, along with Punjab's cities such as Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, and Sialkot, are expected to experience thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds. Balochistan's cities, including Quetta, Zhob, and Ziarat, could also see rainfall and strong winds. NDMA has warned that the severe weather might damage weak structures, crops, and power lines, cause slippery roads, and increase the risk of landslides in hilly areas. The authority has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, drive cautious ly, and adhere to official weather advisories. NDMA has also directed all provincial and district authorities to remain on high alert and recommended that the public stay updated through the official NDMA app, 'Pak NDMA Disaster Alert'.