The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a warning to district administrations throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, forecasting strong winds, thunderstorms, and intermittent rainfall from April 10 to April 12. This alert covers most areas of the province, highlighting the potential for severe weather conditions.
In a significant development, heavy rain and hailstorms are expected in the northern and upper districts such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Buner, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, and Abbottabad. Meanwhile, other regions including Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Charsadda, Swabi, Kohat, Kurram, Orakzai, Khyber, Bajaur, Mohmand, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and Tank are also likely to experience rain and windstorms.
The PDMA cautioned that the heavy rainfall could trigger landslides in the upper districts and cause swelling of streams and nullahs in various locations. There is a particular risk of flash flooding in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Buner, Abbottabad, and Kohistan. Urban flooding may also affect cities such as Peshawar, Mardan, and Nowshera, prompting authorities to urge residents to take necessary precautions.
Strong winds and hailstorms pose a threat to vulnerable structures, electricity poles, and solar panels. The standing crops across the province may suffer damage, leading the PDMA to advise farmers to implement protective measures promptly.
District administrations have been instructed to ensure that rescue teams are fully prepared, resources are readily available, and that traffic flow remains uninterrupted by keeping major highways open and providing alternative routes as needed. Additionally, relevant authorities have been directed to clear drainage systems to reduce the risk of urban flooding.
Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during this period to minimize exposure to hazardous conditions. The emergency operation centre will remain fully operational throughout the forecast period, and the public is encouraged to report emergencies by contacting the PDMA helpline at 1700.
