LOWER DIR: Chitral is reeling from severe flooding following torrential rains, resulting in widespread destruction of roads, bridges, and homes, as reported on Wednesday.
In the Golain Gol area of Chitral, 14 houses and a connecting bridge have been washed away by the floods. Additionally, roads at three locations have been submerged, causing the closure of the Chitral-Mastuj-Gilgit road to all traffic. The severe weather has cut off communication with residents and led to long queues of vehicles.
Despite the catastrophic conditions in Golain Gol, relief efforts have yet to commence, and affected individuals remain without tents, exposed to the elements. The victims have urgently appealed for immediate relief operations and safe shelter.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted rain across various regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram, Torghar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Buner. Thunderstorms are expected in Bajaur, Mohmand, Swabi, Mardan, Charsadda, Khyber, Kohat, Karak, Hangu, Kurram, and Orakzai, with some areas experiencing heavy rainfall. DI Khan, North and South Waziristan may also see intense rainfall at certain locations.
The Meteorological Department has advised that heavy rains could increase water flow in streams and rivers in Galiyat, Kohistan, Swat, Shangla, Khyber, Nowshera, and Swabi, potentially flooding low-lying areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Landslides in mountainous regions could disrupt roads. Travelers and tourists are urged to exercise caution.
Recent rainfall data shows Peshawar received 14 mm, Chitral 15 mm, Dir Upper 50 mm, and Dir Lower 12 mm. The highest rainfall was recorded in Balakot at 102 mm, Malam Jabba 73 mm, Ghalani 31 mm, and Saidu Swat 31 mm. Temperatures ranged from 34°C in Peshawar to 20°C in Malam Jabba and 26°C in Chitral.
