Fresh spell: PDMA warns K-P, FATA of torrential rain

Asks district administrations to remain prepared for any emergency.

Regional Metrological Centre Peshawar Director Mushtaq Shah told The Express Tribune “more than normal” winter rains are expected to lash the upper parts of the province along with parts of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata). STOCK IMAGE

PESHAWAR:
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a warning to all district administrations to brace for a fresh spell of torrential rain.

The department has received a report from the Pakistan Metrological Department forecasting a fresh spell of heavy rainfall in different parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa beginning Sunday night. The PDMA has informed all its district offices in the province along with the district administrations to prepare for any possible emergency situation.

Regional Metrological Centre Peshawar Director Mushtaq Shah told The Express Tribune “more than normal” winter rains are expected to lash the upper parts of the province along with parts of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata). “Rain accompanied by hailstorms will hit Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Kohat, Malakand and Hazara division and continue till Wednesday.”

Entering via Iran, the Western Disturbance will also hit Bajaur, Orakzai and Mohmand agencies on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, he added.


Peshawar DC Riaz Mehsud has established a control room at his official residence where people can contact a helpline (091-9211338) round the clock in case of any emergency.

“We have released more funds to the districts so that a shortage of funds does not become a hurdle in relief and rehabilitation activities,” said a PDMA spokesperson, adding that people residing in areas near rivers should inform their respective district administrations for timely action in case of a flood.

“Our district disaster management units are active in all districts of the province and they have been instructed regarding rehabilitation activities. Our Provincial Emergency Control Centre in Peshawar is in contact with all districts and is monitoring the situation.”

Earlier this week, on Wednesday, at least eight people lost their lives while over 40 others were injured in rain-related incidents across the province and Fata.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 1st, 2015. 
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