Recent rain spell to continue till Monday

ISLAMABAD: The recent rain spell which is continuing in most parts of the country, due to a westerly wave since Friday, is expected to last till Monday (April 29), according to the Pakis­tan Meteorological Depar­t­ment (PMD)

This system is expected to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms, particularly impacting Khyber Pakh­tun­khwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Galiyat, Murree, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The PMD said the anticipated heavy rainfall and thunderstorms posed risks of road disruptions, particularly affecting travellers and tourists. Authorities have urged individuals to monitor weather updates before embarking on journeys.

Disruptions in electricity and other utility services were also anticipated. In addition to the risks posed by heavy rainfall, flash flooding in local streams and river tributaries, as well as landslides and mudslides, were potential hazards in upper KP, Galiyat, Murree, GB and AJK. Farmers have been advised to take extra precautions and adjust agricultural activities accordingly.

The PMD also warned that Balochistan would continue to experience adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, leading to flash flooding in local nullahs and hill torrents in the Sulaiman and the Kirthar mountain ranges.

NDMA ISSUES ADVSIORY

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued an advisory for public during the ongoing rain spell in most parts of the country.

According to the advisory, some regions in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan, and Kashmir are expected to receive heavy to moderate rains, windstorm, and hailstorm, with snowfall over high mountains.

“Hailstorms can damage crops and infrastructure. People should avoid unnecessary travel and crossing rivers and canals. Repair mud houses and ensure water drainage,” the NDMA said, urging citizens to stay away from electric poles and trees in case of lightning. It advised farmers to plan their harvest, especially wheat, according to the weather.

Landslides and mudslides may lead to potential road blockages in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Galiyat, Murree, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Residents near riverbanks and nullahs have been advised to be aware of rising water levels and evacuate if necessary.

Farmers are advised to remain extra cautious and plan agricultural activity accordingly during the spell.

The warning comes at a time when crops are ready to be harvested, especially the wheat crop.

TEMPERATURE OF MAJOR CITIES RECORDED THIS MORNING:

Islamabad 17 degree centigrade, Lahore 22, Karachi 26, Peshawar 20, Quetta 12, Gilgit 14, Murree nine and Muzaffarabad 16 degree centigrade.  

Lightning strikes claim four lives in Mansehra and Kamoke