QUETTA: Amid torrential rains continuing for the past three days, Balochistan government has announced the closure of schools in the province for more additional two days.
Saleh Nasir, the Secondary Education Secretary, has issued a directive instructing authorities to close schools on April 15 and 16 due to the ongoing rains and emergency conditions. It should be noted that educational institutions were slated to commence academic activities starting today.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted further rainfall accompanied by stormy winds for Quetta, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Zhob, Barkhan, Musakhel, Kohlu, Sibi, Loralai, Ziarat, and Qalat. The Met Office indicated that overcast conditions will dominate most parts of the province.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has released guidelines for the public in light of the casualties caused by rains and lightning in various parts of Balochistan. At least eight people have tragically lost their lives due to lightning strikes in parts of Balochistan, as heavy rains have inundated nearly all districts of the province since the third day of Eid.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the PDMA emphasized that lightning typically strikes open and elevated areas, urging people to take precautionary measures.
They advised against seeking shelter under trees during thunderstorms and avoiding keeping shiny objects exposed to the open sky. It was stressed to stay away from iron objects such as vehicles and poles, as well as avoiding plains, beaches, and other open areas. The PDMA also cautioned against using mobile phones, landlines, computers, or laptops outdoors during thunderstorms and advised against traveling on motorcycles or bicycles.
