The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a severe weather alert for multiple regions in Pakistan, forecasting heavy rains over the next three days.
The alert covers Azad Kashmir, Malakand, Hazara, and Gujranwala divisions, with additional rainfall expected in Potohar, Mardan, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Multan, Rajanpur, Mirpur Khas, Sukkur, Karachi, Hyderabad, Umarkot, Badin, Thatta, Tharparkar, DI Khan, Koh-e-Sulaiman range, Zhob, Ziarat, Kalat, and Sibbi divisions.
The authority has issued an alert to the provincial disaster management authorities and other relevant institutions, a spokesperson said.
In response to the impending severe weather conditions, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the NDMA to implement immediate measures to protect lives and property. The PM's instructions include coordinating with the provincial governments, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan to manage the situation effectively.
PM Sharif has emphasized the need for proactive measures such as drainage management in Islamabad, ensuring facilities for citizens, and continuous monitoring by relevant institutions. He has directed to ensure continuous monitoring and institutions to ensure joint actions.
Key directives also include the timely evacuation of residents from low-lying areas, provision of medical staff, medicines and timely treatment, vaccines and ensuring the availability of water pumps and machinery.
The NDMA has been tasked with ensuring a comprehensive response to the expected rainfall, including supporting emergency services and facilitating coordinated actions to mitigate potential hazards caused by the severe weather.
Citizens are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions and follow the guidance provided by local authorities to ensure their safety during the upcoming heavy rains.
