PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert as the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from August 17 to 21.
According to the alert, widespread rain and severe weather are expected in northern, central and southern districts during the five-day period.
The affected areas include Upper and Lower Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Buner, Shangla, Malakand, Bajaur, Upper and Lower Kohistan, Kolai Palas, Battagram, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mardan, Swabi, Khyber, Mohmand, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu and Orakzai.
Heavy downpours are also expected in Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, North Waziristan and South Waziristan on August 20 and 21.
Following the weather forecast, authorities have directed relevant departments to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to deal with any emergency situation.
Director General Rescue 1122 Shah Fahad urged citizens to exercise extreme caution, particularly during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
He advised the public to avoid swimming in rivers and streams and refrain from unnecessary travel, hiking and trekking in vulnerable areas due to the increased risk of landslides and flash floods.
Citizens have also been advised to stay away from electricity poles, signboards, steep slopes and unfinished structures during thunderstorms.
Authorities further cautioned residents, particularly women, against attempting to cross flooded areas, streams or bridges during heavy rainfall.
The public has been urged to follow official weather and emergency advisories and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of lives and property.