Abbottabad: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) issued a comprehensive advisory on Tuesday, urging farmers, herders, tourists, and the general public to take necessary precautions due to anticipated dust storms and severe weather conditions.
According to the advisory, the Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert indicating that weak westerly winds are expected to affect the upper regions of the country starting May 28. This weather system is expected to bring intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds from the evening of May 28 to June 1.
The regions likely to be affected include Chitral, Dir, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, Malakand, Waziristan, Kohat, Lakki Marwat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Karak, Khyber, Peshawar, Mardan, and Kurram. Heavy rainfall during this period may trigger landslides in the upper regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, specifically in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Buner, Mansehra, and Abbottabad.
Strong winds and thunderstorms could potentially damage structures such as electric poles, signboards, billboards, and solar panels. Local administrations have been advised to utilize available resources to plan and control traffic in sensitive and tourist areas. Ensuring the safety of residents and visitors by protecting them from weak structures, advertising boards, electric poles, and solar panels is of utmost importance.
In urban areas, measures should be taken to clear stormwater drains of any obstacles to prevent flooding caused by rain, ensuring that water flow remains unobstructed. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow the guidelines issued by local authorities to minimize potential damage and ensure safety during this period of adverse weather conditions.
Farmers have been strongly advised to protect their crops through timely harvesting and safe storage practices, while herders should adopt necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their livestock. Tourists planning to travel on provincial and national highways, especially in areas at risk or already affected by severe weather, are advised to stay informed about the latest weather conditions. The National Highway Authority (NHA) and other relevant local authorities will guide travelers to safe waiting areas to ensure their safety.
Special directives have been issued for emergency services, including Rescue 1122, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, and Civil Defense, to remain on high alert and fully equipped to respond. Law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with local administration, will regulate level crossings and manage traffic diversions, especially with the potential for rapid water flow in storm drains.
The PDMA’s emergency operations center is fully operational, and the public is encouraged to report any incidents or emergencies to the toll-free helpline at 1700.
