The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather alert forecasting rain, thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated heavy downpours across most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on July 11 and 12.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, moist currents from the Arabian Sea and a westerly weather system are expected to affect the province, bringing rain and thunderstorms to Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Bajaur, Kohistan, Kolai-Palas, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Mardan, Swabi, Khyber, Mohmand, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, Kurram, Orakzai, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and North and South Waziristan.

The PDMA warned that strong winds and lightning could damage weak structures, electric poles, solar panels, billboards, and standing crops. Landslides are also likely in the hilly areas of Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, and Abbottabad, while water levels in local streams and rivers may rise.

The authority also cautioned about the possibility of urban flooding in Swat, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, Swabi, and Nowshera, as well as flash floods in vulnerable areas of Malakand and Shangla.

PDMA has directed all deputy commissioners, district administrations, rescue agencies, and relevant departments to remain on high alert, ensure continuous monitoring of sensitive areas, keep emergency response teams, Rescue 1122, heavy machinery, and essential personnel ready, clear drainage systems, and ensure immediate response to any incidents of landslides or flash floods.

Also Read : KP Faces Another Day of Extreme Weather

Tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from mountainous areas, streams, rivers, and flood-prone locations, and remain updated on the latest weather conditions. The public has also been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid standing near electric poles and weak structures, and keep children away from rivers and flowing streams.

Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures to protect crops, while livestock owners have been urged to move their animals to safer locations.

The PDMA has also instructed relevant authorities to ensure the availability of food, fuel, medicines, and other essential supplies to facilitate prompt emergency response if required.