NDMA Issues Nationwide Alert as Powerful Storm System

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide weather alert after forecasting heavy rain, thunderstorms, windstorms, and hailstorms across several regions of Pakistan over the next 12 to 24 hours, according to Beyond Time News.

Weather System Expected Across Multiple Regions

The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) warned that the current weather activity matches earlier seasonal predictions for the April to June period. Officials said the system could bring widespread rain along with strong winds in many parts of the country.

Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are expected to be the most affected regions.

Areas Likely to Experience Heavy Rainfall

The NDMA said several cities in Punjab may see thunderstorms and heavy rain. These include Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Multan, Sargodha, Jhelum, and many surrounding districts.

In northern areas, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir are also likely to receive rain and thunderstorms. Locations such as Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Rawalakot fall under the alert.

Strong Winds and Hail Expected in KP

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is expected to face strong winds, thunderstorms, and possible hailstorms in several districts, including Peshawar, Swat, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Mardan, Chitral, and Dera Ismail Khan.

Read more:Punjab Bans Under-18 Marriage in Landmark Child Protection Law

Flood and Landslide Risks in Northern Areas

NDMA also warned that rising temperatures may speed up glacier melting in northern regions. This could increase the risk of flash floods, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas.

Authorities advised people to avoid visiting glaciers, lakes, and unsafe slopes during this period.

Public Advisory Issued

The NDMA urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions. It also warned that strong winds and hail could damage weak buildings, solar panels, and parked vehicles.

Emergency response teams and relevant departments have been placed on high alert to handle any possible situation.

Residents have been advised to stay indoors during storms and follow official safety instructions until conditions improve.