NDMA forecasts strong rain and hailstorms across Pakistan

The Meteorological Department issued a warning of windstorms, thundershowers and heavy rain across several parts of the country over the next 12 to 24 hours.

Rain-bearing systems are likely to affect Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and Sindh, with some areas at risk of hailstorms. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, evening thunderstorms may hit Peshawar, Swabi, Mardan, Nowshera and Charsadda.

Similarly, strong winds and storms are forecast for hilly districts including Shangla, Swat, Kalam, Dir, Chitral and Buner. Heavy rainfall is also expected in upper areas such as Kohistan, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Balakot and Haripur. Meanwhile, tribal districts including Bajaur, Mohmand, Orakzai and Khyber could see rain and thunderstorms without much delay.

Furthermore, wind and rain are likely in Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, Karak, Lakki Marwat, Parachinar and Waziristan, and some elevated spots may experience hail. The Met Office reported recent rainfall of 8 mm at Pattan and 7 mm at Parachinar during the last 24 hours.

In addition, the National Disaster Management Authority warned that ongoing showers combined with rising temperatures could accelerate glacier melt. Therefore, authorities flagged heightened risks of glacial lake outburst floods, flash floods and landslides in sensitive mountain and river basin areas. Consequently, rescue and relief agencies have been advised to stay alert and prepare for rapid response.