Date: September 2, 2024
Location: Islamabad, Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that the nation should prepare themselves for more torrential downpours over most parts of the country in the day. The department has called on citizens to take precautionary measures since the rains are likely to provoke flash floods, landslides, and other weather-related dangers in most especially the exposed areas.
Weather forecast
As noted by the PMD, the current active monsoon period is getting stronger and will cover most areas with rains, with some regions likely to experience extremely heavy rains. The likely affected areas are southern Sindh, eastern Balochistan, and parts of Punjab. Portions of the country are expected to be affected by rainfall for the next 48 to 72 hours, which raises eyebrows on potential urban flooding in major cities like Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.
Reaction of society
The heavy rains have already begun to cause disruptions in the normal activities of the people, with incidences of water blockage, disturbance in traffic, and disconnection of electricity. Within the hinterlands, an increasing worry is more pronounced concerning crops such as cotton and rice, which are at critical development stages.
A state of emergency has been declared by the authorities who are on high alert and have been ordered to ensure the safety of people living in the regions prone to flooding. Rescue teams and emergency services have been placed on high alert, while the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has ensured that its trusts are ready in the provinces.
Public Advisory
PMD advised the masses to keep themselves abreast of the changing weather situation and also refrain from any unnecessary movement especially in the flood-prone regions. Reports also warned fishermen about the inclement weather and ordered them to stay away from the ocean, people residing next to the rivers and creeks have also been warned to relocate to safer places.
They are also urged to prepare emergency sets for their households and work with the local bodies to carry out evacuation activities whenever deemed necessary.
Government Response
The government has reassured the people that all possible steps are being taken in order to handle the heavy rainfall. The Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has instructed concerned ministries to stock all necessary supplies and take care of the affected areas’ people.
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