Keeping in view the forecast of rain and snowfall across most parts of the country over the next two to three days, the National Disaster Management Authority on Monday issued an advisory, urging the public to remain cautious during adverse weather conditions, according to the source.
The Met Office said westerly winds are expected to enter the country late Monday night and are likely to strengthen on December 30. “Under the impact of the system, rain and snow are expected in the upper and central parts of the country on December 31,” the Met Office said.
It added that snowfall is likely in several hill stations, including Naran, Kaghan, Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Murree, Galyat, Hunza, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Skardu, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch and Haveli.
The weather department warned that snowfall could trigger landslides and avalanches in mountainous regions. It also predicted a reduction in fog across the plains of Punjab and Sindh due to the expected rainfall.
In its advisory, the NDMA advised tourists and commuters to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow safety precautions in view of the changing weather.
The authority instructed Provincial Disaster Management Authorities, the Gilgit Baltistan Disaster Management Authority, the State Disaster Management Authority, and the ICT Administration to remain fully prepared, keep emergency teams on aler,t and take timely steps to safeguard lives, property and critical infrastructure.
The NDMA said it is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with relevant departments to ensure a prompt response. It also urged the public to stay updated on weather conditions through the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App.