Peshawar: PDMA Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a province-wide alert forecasting intermittent rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds in upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from tonight until May 23.

According to the PDMA, heavy rain accompanied by gusty winds is expected in Upper Chitral, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Buner, Malakand, Bajaur, Upper and Lower Kohistan, Kolai Palas, Battagram, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Haripur districts.

The authority further stated that Mardan, Swabi, Khyber, Mohmand, Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, Orakzai, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, North Waziristan, and South Waziristan are also likely to receive rain and thunderstorms.

PDMA warned of possible landslides in upper districts including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Malakand, Buner, Abbottabad, and Kohistan, while flash flooding in local streams and nullahs may also occur in various areas.

The authority said the rainfall is likely to bring temporary relief from the ongoing heatwave; however, strong winds and storms may damage weak structures, electricity poles, solar panels, and standing crops. Farmers have been advised to take precautionary measures.

District administrations have been directed to ensure preparedness of rescue teams, availability of machinery and emergency resources, cleaning of drainage systems, and uninterrupted traffic flow on major roads with alternate routes where necessary.

Tourists and residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from floodwaters, streams, and other hazardous locations during heavy rainfall.

PDMA stated that its Emergency Operations Center remains fully operational, and citizens can report emergencies through helpline 1700.