Peshawar:
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a warning following the meteorological department’s forecast of intermittent rain, thunderstorms and heavy rain in different parts of the province from September 28 to September 2.
All district administrations and line departments have been instructed to remain on high alarm.
According to the PDMA, heavy rains may trigger flash floods in local streams, seasonal nullahs, and rivers in the upper and central districts, including Galiyat, Mansehra, Kohistan (Upper and Lower), Kolai-Palas, Abbottabad, Buner, Bajaur, Battagram, Hangu, Torghar, Haripur, Karak, Chitral (Upper and Lower), Dir (Upper and Lower), Swat, Shangla, Khyber, Kohat, Nowshera, Swabi, Marran, Kurram, Lakki Marwat, Malakand, Mohmand, Orakzai, Bunu, North and South Waziristan and Tank.
The authority has further warned of possible landslides in hilly areas and the city’s flooding in low -lying cities. Strong wind and lightning can also damage weak structures, electricity bars, advertising boards and solar panels.
PDMA has instructed district administrations to ensure precautionary measures, clean drainage systems and provide timely information to local residents, tourists and travelers.
Farmers and livestock owners have been asked to move crops and animals to safer places, while tourists have been encouraged to avoid visiting risky areas during the expected period.
Relevant departments have been instructed to ensure the availability of relief, medical help, food and other important supplies. The public has been requested to avoid unnecessary travel during bad weather.
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PDMA’s Emergency Operations Center is fully functional. Citizens can report any emergency or seek help by contacting 24/7 PDMA Helpline at 1700.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), heavy rain and flash floods in KP have claimed at least 406 lives and wounded over 245 others.
Accidents include 305 men, 55 women and 46 children, while wounded include 179 men, 38 women and 30 children. In addition, torrential rain and floods have damaged 3,526 houses, with 2,945 partially destroyed and 577 completely torn.
Buner registered the highest number of fatalities with 337 deaths, followed by Sawabi with a death toll of 46.
Authorities in affected districts have been asked to accelerate relief operations and provide immediate assistance to the victims. PDMA and relevant agencies remain in contact and closely monitor the situation.
Emergency Operations Center remains fully operational. Residents can report emergency situations or search for updates via the free guideline 1700.
