The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert warning of strong winds, dust storms and gusty conditions across several regions of Pakistan through week’s end, urging citizens and local authorities to take precautionary measures against potential disruptions and damage. According to the NDMA, the ongoing weather situation is unfolding in line with its seasonal outlook and advance forecasts issued three to four months earlier.

The authority said prevailing conditions were consistent with the early warning advisories released by the NEOC, reflecting the effectiveness of its predictive monitoring and preparedness efforts. The alert stated that Islamabad and multiple districts of Punjab, including Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Multan and Bahawalpur, would be expected to experience strong winds and dust laden storms on June 11 and 12. Islamabad, Rawalpindi and adjoining areas would likely face particularly intense wind gusts on June 12.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, localized windstorms are forecast for Chitral, Swat, Dir, Mardan, Nowshera, Peshawar, Kohat, Bannu and Dera Ismail Khan during June 11 and 12. Balochistan is expected to remain under the influence of strong winds and dust storms through June 13, with greater intensity anticipated in some districts. Areas likely to be affected include Quetta, Zhob, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, Qila Saifullah, Chagai, Khuzdar, Gwadar and Lasbela. The NDMA also warned that stormy winds could affect Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Chaman, Sibi, Harnai, Barkhan, Musa Khel and Surab over the next 12 to 24 hours.

Meanwhile, Sindh is forecast to experience dust storms and strong winds through June 13, particularly in Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Tharparkar, Umerkot and Mirpurkhas. Southern and coastal districts of the province may witness intensified storm activity. The NDMA cautioned that reduced visibility, traffic disruptions and interruptions to daily life could occur due to dust storms and strong winds. Weak structures, signboards, trees, solar panels, water tanks and temporary installations may sustain damage, while electricity and communication networks could also be affected.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)