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A puddle of rainwater creates problems in the free movement of traffic in Quetta. Photo: PPI
QUETA:
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a provincial and district level alert while forecasting a new strong western weather system in Balochistan.
Under this system, intermittent rain is expected in about 27 districts of the province from March 24 to 25 and again from March 27 to 29, while heavy rain, thunder, strong winds and hailstorms are also likely in several areas.
According to the Meteorological Office, the western weather system will enter Balochistan via Iran, so there is a serious risk of flash floods due to heavy rains from March 25 to 28. The weather on Tuesday, according to the Meteorological Department, will remain partly cloudy in most districts of Balochistan.
Intermittent rain may begin in different areas after midday, while heavy rain and hail may occur in some areas. A drop in temperatures is also expected in northern areas, including Quetta, while winds will remain strong.
Local streams and waterways in coastal and mountainous areas may overflow. In some places, heavy rain and hail storms can turn roads into waterlogged areas, while strong winds can cause trees to fall and damage power poles.
Affected districts
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a notification detailing the areas that may be affected.
Coastal and southern areas: Kharan, Khuzdar, Kech (Turbat), Panjgur, Awaran, Gwadar, Pasni, Ormara, Lasbela: heavy rain accompanied by sea winds is expected here.
Central and northern areas: Chagai, Dalbandin, Nushki, Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Loralai, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Sibi, Kohlu, Barkhan, Naseerabad: Moderate to heavy rain with thunder is expected.
Other areas: Harnai, Zhob, Kalat, Mastung: Rain with strong winds and thunder is expected.
The Meteorological Department has issued instructions to all relevant institutions, including the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Rescue 1122, local administration and Highway Department, to take precautionary measures in advance.
public notice
Tourists and travelers have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on mountainous and coastal roads, as visibility may be reduced due to hail storms and strong winds. If travel is unavoidable, they have been advised to check the latest weather updates and exercise caution.
According to experts, these rains can be beneficial for the dry regions of Balochistan, but timely measures are necessary to prevent loss of life and property due to flash floods. The Meteorological Department has said the situation is being monitored and further updates will be issued.
Citizens have been advised to stay away from streams and dams, to keep children inside their homes and to stay away from power lines and poles. Additionally, rainwater harvesters should exercise caution, while residents living near streams and waterways have been especially advised to remain alert and secure weak structures.
