Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority has warned of flooding in eastern and western rivers and streams, as well as urban flooding in low-lying areas, from today to Thursday due to heavy monsoon rains.
According to Radio Pakistan, a strong monsoon system, coupled with a powerful westerly weather system, is expected to bring heavy rainfall at various places in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and upper Punjab. The Authority has cautioned that flash floods and hill torrents may occur in these regions, posing a significant threat to the affected areas.
Flood surges are anticipated in the Chenab River at Marala and in the upper reaches of the Jhelum River near Mangla. The NDMA has specifically warned of flash flooding in local streams passing through Sialkot, Narowal, and areas like Bhimber and Gujrat. Furthermore, a high risk of flash floods is forecasted in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur, as well as in streams and seasonal waterways in Murree and Galiyat.
The water level in the Kabul River and its tributaries is expected to rise significantly, with high alert conditions likely in vulnerable areas, including Nowshera. There is also a risk of flooding in areas adjoining the Kabul River, particularly along the Panjkora, Swat, and Chitral rivers. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts such as Lower Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Malakand, Shangla, and several others are expected to experience heavy rainfall and flash flooding.
The NDMA has issued a flash flood alert for various parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, indicating a high risk of urban flooding in major cities including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Lahore. Flash floods are also likely in hill torrents and adjoining streams in several districts, with Azad Jammu and Kashmir's rivers expected to experience high flows.
The Authority has directed relevant departments and the public to remain on high alert, advising citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution near mountain slopes and riverbanks. Emergency machinery and rescue teams are to be kept on standby by the relevant authorities, and travelers are urged to exercise caution on mountainous and landslide-prone routes.
For authentic information and safety guidelines, the public is encouraged to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App, ensuring they remain informed and prepared during this potentially hazardous period.
