Pakistan Prepares for Widespread Severe Weather, NDMA Issues Nationwide Alert

Islamabad, Pakistan is on high alert as it braces for an extended period of severe weather, As per forecasts by the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and various weather models. Spanning from April 17th to April 29th, the country is expected to face a series of intense weather systems that could bring heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hailstorms across multiple regions.

According to Press Information Department, the imminent weather system, set to affect the country starting today, will primarily impact Balochistan from April 17th to 19th, before moving on to Punjab and Sindh from April 18th to 19th. The most significant effects will be felt in upper Punjab from April 18th to 21st, and in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) from April 17th to 22nd. Following this, a milder weather pattern from April 23rd to 24th will bring lighter rain and thunderstorms, particularly affecting Balochistan, upper Punjab, KP, GB, and AJK, while sparing Sindh.

A third, more potent system is forecasted to hit from April 25th to 29th, intensifying the weather conditions again with heavy rain and thunderstorms, and is expected to affect almost all regions intermittently. This system poses a significant risk of flash floods, especially in vulnerable areas such as Khuzdar, Ziarat, and Gwadar, among others.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued directives to Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs) to prepare for potential emergencies. Authorities are tasked with ensuring the readiness of machinery, the availability of staff in vulnerable regions, and the sensitization of residents in flood-prone areas.

Local departments have also been instructed to facilitate the timely evacuation of populations from low-lying and flood-prone areas As per established evacuation plans. Citizens, especially farmers, cattle owners, tourists, and travelers, are urged to exercise caution. They are advised to stay informed about weather updates and road conditions, avoid dangerous areas, and take proactive measures to protect their property and livestock.

The NDMA emphasizes the importance of community preparedness and cooperation with local disaster management authorities to minimize the impact of the upcoming severe weather conditions.