Earlier this week, residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi faced a powerful hailstorm that left a significant trail of damage across the twin cities. The sudden and intense storm shattered car windshields, cracked rear windows, and caused dents and paint damage to countless parked vehicles. The hailstorm came with little warning, catching many residents off guard and shaking communities with its sheer intensity.
Images and videos of damaged vehicles and flooded streets flooded social media, highlighting the vulnerability of urban infrastructure in the face of extreme weather. The aftermath has left vehicle owners dealing with insurance claims, repair costs, and concerns about future weather unpredictability.
NDMA Forecasts More Extreme Weather in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
In light of recent weather disruptions, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a new weather alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), warning of heavy rainfall, windstorms, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms over the next 48 hours.
According to the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), the extreme weather is expected to impact several districts, including:
- Malakand Division
- Hazara Division
- Peshawar
- Mardan
- Charsadda
- Kohat
- Bannu
- Swabi
- Karak
- Khyber
- Orakzai
- Lakki Marwat
- Kurram
- Nowshera
- Waziristan and surrounding areas
The alert, valid from the evening of April 18 to April 19, 2025, highlights the potential for severe weather-related disruptions.
Potential Hazards and Safety Concerns
NDMA has listed several potential threats from the predicted weather, including:
- Landslides or avalanches in mountainous areas such as Malakand and Hazara divisions.
- Road blockages due to landslides or snowfall.
- Flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall, posing risks to transportation and agriculture.
Tourists and local residents are advised to check road conditions before travel, especially in mountainous and vulnerable areas.
Public Safety Guidelines and Precautions
NDMA strongly recommends the following precautions to reduce the risks:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of extreme weather.
- Regularly monitor weather forecasts, particularly if visiting or residing in high-risk regions.
- Stay vigilant in landslide and avalanche-prone zones.
- Follow advisories issued by local authorities and emergency services.
To stay informed, the NDMA encourages citizens to download the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile app, which provides real-time alerts and hazard-specific guidelines for public safety.
Vigilance Is Key Amid Rising Weather Volatility
With climate patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, recent events like the Islamabad hailstorm and the forecasted extreme weather in KPK serve as a wake-up call. Authorities are on high alert, but public cooperation and awareness remain crucial in minimizing damage and ensuring safety.
The NDMA’s proactive approach and timely communication will play a vital role in mitigating risks and safeguarding lives and property in the days to come.
