Heavy rain, flood warning issued for northern Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: A powerful western disturbance is predicted to hit the higher regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from January 21 to 24, which could lead to a rise in the water flow in the streams and smaller rivers that feed into the Kabul River.

As per the NDMA warning, precipitation in the form of rain and snow could set off flooding in several areas, including Swat, Chitral, Buner, Shangla, Upper and Lower Dir, Malakand, Bajaur, Mardan, Swabi, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Haripur, Kolai-Palas, Kohistan, and Azad Kashmir.

The government has requested preparedness; thus, the worst-case scenario is being prepared for. One of the things most seriously monitored is the condition of areas already deemed risky.

Heavy rain is expected in most districts of Punjab during the next 24 to 48 hours. Rain is likely in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sargodha, and adjoining areas. Snowfall is expected in Murree and adjoining mountainous areas.

Similarly, rain is likely in most districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and snowfall is expected in the upper areas. Snowfall is expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Naran, Kaghan, and Galiyat. Due to rain and snowfall, there is a possibility of slippery roads and traffic flow being affected.

Recent Weather

Debunked black clouds led to heavy rainfall, and some chilly corners of the country experienced snow in Chitral, Kalam, Malam Jabba, Patan Kohistan, and Dir.

The coldest places were: Kalam (-4°C), Parachinar (-4°C), Upper Dir (0°C), Chitral (1°C), and Peshawar (5°C). The highest snowfall of the day was recorded in Kalam. Fresh snow was confirmed in Chitral Kalash Valleys, Lowari Tunnel, Madak Lasht, Garam Chashma, and other areas of Lower Chitral.

In the area of the Lowari Tunnel, snow was about 5 inches deep; in the Kalash Valleys of Chitral (Bamburet), it was 3 inches; in Madak Lasht, it was 4 inches, and in Beghusht, it was 5 inches. In the northernmost part of Chitral, Shandur, Laspur, and Yarkhun were also graced with snow.

Traffic Update

The traffic flow on the Lowari Tunnel Road is smooth. Travelers are advised by the authorities to carry snow chains with them. Punjab Weather Forecast: PDMA Punjab states that the heavy rains and snowfall will impact Muree, Galiyat, and adjoining areas, with tourist attractions during and after January 23. 13 facilitation centers have been established in Muree for the benefit of the tourists. The authorities insist, and rightly so, that the travelers keep track of the weather before leaving.