The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide weather alert, warning of strong winds, thunderstorms, and hailstorms expected across most parts of the country during the next 12 to 24 hours.
Authorities have urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and take precautionary measures to ensure safety amid the worsening weather conditions.
According to the NDMA spokesperson, strong winds and thunderstorms are expected in various districts of the federal capital Islamabad, as well as in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan.
Hailstorms are also likely in some places. Rain and cloudy weather are expected in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir as well.
There is a serious risk of flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods due to rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and the possible bursting of glacial lakes. Citizens have been advised to avoid going near glacial lakes and to stay away from vulnerable areas.
Meanwhile, strong winds and possible hailstorms in the southern parts of the country may damage weak structures, solar panels, and vehicles. According to the NDMA, rainfall in mountainous areas may create severe travel difficulties, and citizens are urged to exercise caution while travelling.
It is worth mentioning here that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had earlier carried out its first comprehensive search and rescue simulation exercise, which is designed to improve coordinated disaster response mechanisms throughout Pakistan.
The drill was successfully executed at the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) located in Islamabad, with a focus on improving an integrated system to address potential hazards and emergencies more efficiently. As per officials, the exercise was organised in anticipation of monsoon-related risks, particularly flooding.
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