ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - National Disaster Management Authority through its National Emergencies Operation Center issued a weather alert for several districts across Pakistan regarding expected weather conditions over the next 12 to 24 hours.
According to the alert, rain is expected in upper areas of Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and upper regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Rainfall is forecast in Islamabad and several Punjab cities including Murree, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sialkot and Mandi Bahauddin.
The alert stated that rain was also expected in various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa including Chitral, Swat, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mardan and Dera Ismail Khan among others.
In Balochistan, rain has been forecast for Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin and Sibi.
Similarly, rainfall is expected in several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir including Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Astore, Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot.
The NDMA warned that thunderstorms, strong winds and hailstorms could accompany the rain in several areas.
Authorities cautioned that strong winds, lightning and hail could damage weak structures, trees, standing crops and electricity lines.
The NDMA also warned that roads could become slippery and traffic flow might be disrupted due to rainfall.
Citizens were advised to avoid unnecessary travel, drive carefully and follow weather advisories. People were also urged to stay away from trees, weak structures and installations during storms and strong winds.
Tourists and travellers were advised to check weather and road conditions before travelling to northern areas and use the official “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” application for timely updates.
The NDMA further directed all provincial and district authorities to remain alert and prepared to deal with the expected weather situation.