Heavy rains expected across country

Rain is expected in several parts of Pakistan from August 30 to September 4, according to an alert issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The NDMA said most districts of Punjab are likely to receive rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds at scattered places. Heavy rainfall is also expected in some areas. Rain is forecast in Murree, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Khushab, Sargodha and Gujrat. Sialkot, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Narowal, Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Lahore, Kasur, Okara and adjoining areas may also receive rainfall. Most parts of Punjab are expected to experience hot and humid weather, with daytime temperatures likely to rise. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, thunderstorms, gusty winds and rain are expected at several locations, with heavy rainfall possible in some areas. Rain is forecast in Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Bajaur, Shangla, Battagram, Buner and Mansehra. Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, Kurram, Waziristan and other areas may also receive rain during the period. Several areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir are also likely to experience thunderstorms, gusty winds and rain, with isolated heavy falls. Rain is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Poonch, Bagh, Mirpur, Kotli and Bhimber. Daytime temperatures are also expected to rise in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, with hot and humid weather forecast. Most parts of Sindh are expected to remain hot and humid, with daytime temperatures likely to increase. The NDMA has alerted all relevant authorities to the anticipated weather conditions and advised them to remain prepared. Travellers and tourists have been advised to check weather conditions before travelling and use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for guidance. The authority also advised people to dial 911 for assistance in case of a potential flood emergency. Also read: Petition filed in IHC over fire safety lapses in Islamabad