ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted more monsoon rains for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, prompting the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) to issue an alert for the region.

Meanwhile, a separate monsoon spell has brought heavy downpours to Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) in Rawalpindi has been placed on high alert in response.

According to WASA’s Managing Director, their staff and heavy machinery have been deployed to low-lying areas to prevent urban flooding.

The alert warns of several potential dangers, including flash floods in districts like Abbottabad, Swat, Chitral, Peshawar, and Mansehra. There is also a risk of rivers and streams overflowing, landslides in hilly areas, and urban flooding in cities.

The PDMA has also advised farmers to move their crops and livestock to safer locations.

WASA officials are continuously monitoring the Leh Nullah and other drainage channels throughout the city. The water level at Katarian was reported at 14 feet, while at the Gawalmandi Bridge it was 9 feet. More than 70 millimeters of rain have been recorded in the twin cities, with specific amounts including 69 mm in Saidpur, 71 mm in Golra, 29 mm in Bokra, and 37 mm at the PMD station.

The PDMA has advised all relevant departments to remain on high alert from August 17 to 19, anticipating strong winds, thunderstorms, and heavy rainfall.