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A pool of rainwater is creating traffic flow problems in Quetta. Photo: PPI
QUETTA:
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued an alert at provincial and district levels while forecasting a new and strong western weather system in Balochistan.
Under this system, intermittent rains are 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 Met Office, the western weather system will enter Balochistan via Iran, bringing serious risk of flash floods due to heavy rains from March 25 to 28. The weather on Tuesday, according to the Met Department, will remain partly cloudy in most districts of Balochistan.
Intermittent rain could begin in different areas after midday, while some areas could experience heavy rain and hailstorms. A drop in temperatures is also expected in northern regions, particularly in Quetta, while winds will remain strong.
Local streams and streams in coastal and mountainous areas may overflow. In some areas, torrential rain and hailstorms can turn roads into flooded areas, while strong winds can cause trees to fall and damage power poles.
Neighborhoods concerned
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a notification detailing the areas that could be affected.
Coastal and southern areas: Kharan, Khuzdar, Kech (Turbat), Panjgur, Awaran, Gwadar, Pasni, Ormara, Lasbela — heavy rains accompanied by sea winds are expected here.
Central and northern regions: 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 regions: Harnai, Zhob, Kalat, Mastung — rain with strong winds and thunder are expected.
The Met Department has issued instructions to all relevant institutions, including the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Rescue 1122, local administration and the Highways Department, to take precautionary measures in advance.
Public notice
Tourists and travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly on mountainous and coastal roads, as visibility may be reduced due to hailstorms and strong winds. If travel is unavoidable, they are advised to check the latest weather updates and exercise caution.
According to experts, these rains could prove beneficial for the arid regions of Balochistan, but prompt measures are needed to avoid loss of lives and property due to flash floods. The Met department said the situation was being monitored and further updates would be issued.
Citizens were advised to stay away from streams and dams, keep children indoors and stay away from electrical wires and poles. Additionally, those collecting rainwater should exercise caution, while residents living near streams and waterways have been especially urged to remain vigilant and secure weak structures.
