Islamabad braces for rain, gusty winds until June 1

Islamabad:The National Emergencies Operation Centre of the National Disaster Management Authority has issued an impact-based weather alert.

According to it, strong western weather systems are expected to impact various parts of Pakistan until June 1, bringing rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and potential hailstorms. Islamabad is expected to experience heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds.

In Punjab, severe weather is likely in Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Mianwali, Khushab, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Sahiwal, Okara and Kasur. In Southern Punjab, moderate rain and gusty winds may affect Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar and Muzaffargarh from 27 to 29 May.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, thunderstorms and strong winds are expected in Swat, Dir, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Kohistan, Chitral, Shangla, Buner, Malakand, Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Swabi, Charsadda, Hangu, D.I. Khan, Bannu, Lakki Marwat and Waziristan from 27-29 May.

In Balochistan, rain and thunderstorms may impact Quetta, Zhob, Barkhan, Khuzdar, Kalat, Lasbela, Mastung, Qila Saifullah, Qila Abdullah, and Awaran from 27 to 29 May.

In Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and landslides may affect Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Gilgit, Hunza, Ghanche, Shigar, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur from 27 May to 1st June.

In Sindh, hot and dry conditions will prevail with no significant rainfall forecast from May 27-29. The NDMA urged all provincial and district authorities to ensure emergency preparedness, remain vigilant and coordinate with local response units for timely action and said it would continue to monitor the evolving situation and provide timely updates.

The NDMA advised people to avoid unnecessary travel, especially in hilly and flood-prone areas, secure weak structures, trees, power lines and solar panels and park vehicles in secure and covered areas.

It asked farmers to take necessary measures to protect standing crops from potential hailstorms and gusty winds, aid travelers and tourists should exercise caution during outdoor and mountain excursions.