ISLAMABAD:
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Thursday forecast widespread rain-wind and thundershowers in different parts of the country on Friday, with warning of flash flood in vulnerable districts.
The PMD forecast rain in Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), north-eastern Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B), and Kashmir, while 40% chance of rain and thunderstorms in Islamabad. It said that a hot and humid weather will prevail in other parts of the country, particularly in Sindh and southern Balochistan.
The PMD warned that a heavy rainfall might trigger flash flooding in local nullahs and streams in parts of K-P, including Dir, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Kohat, Karak, Hangu, and Tank, as well as Dera Ghazi Khan, South Punjab, Murree, Galliyat, and Kashmir.
“Citizens are advised to take precautionary measures as windstorms, lightning and heavy downpours may damage vulnerable structures such as kacha houses, electric poles, billboards, solar panels, and parked vehicles,” it said.
According to the PMD, significant rain was recorded during the past 24 hours. The maximum rain was recorded in Bannu which received 38 millimetres; followed by 35mm in Layyah; 29mm in Bahawalnagar; and up to 19mm in Bahawalpur.
Despite widespread rainfall, high temperatures were also recorded in several areas. Nokkundi was hottest spot in the country with mercury soaring to 45C, followed by Dalbandin at 44C, Panjgur at 43C, and Sibi at 42C.
The authorities have urged citizens, particularly in flood-prone areas, to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains. The emergency services and local administrations have been put on alert to deal with any untoward situation.
(WITH INPUT FROM APP)
