NDMA Issues Heavy Rain and Flood Alerts for Northern Pakistan

Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for heavy rainfall in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Murree, Galiyat, and adjoining areas from today until Saturday. Heavy downpours are expected to affect several regions, raising concerns over potential flash flooding and landslides.According to Radio Pakistan, heavy rainfall is anticipated in various areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Dir, Swat, Buner, Malakand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Swabi, Mardan, and Peshawar. The NDMA has warned that such weather patterns could lead to flash flooding in urban centers and landslides in mountainous terrains.In addition to the rainfall alert, the NDMA has issued a potential flood warning for Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. This is due to the possible outburst of glacial lakes, exacerbated by rapidly melting glaciers from ongoing monsoon rains and rising temperatures. Vulnerable areas ide ntified include Ghizer, Hunza, Nagar, Shigar, Gilgit, Rondu, Diamer, Astore, Skardu, Ghanche, Kharmang, and Neelum Valley.Similarly, there is an increased risk of flash flooding and landslides in Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Buner, and surrounding mountainous areas. Residents in these locations are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary movement near glacial rivers, streams, and other hazardous spots.The NDMA has emphasized the importance of staying informed about weather conditions and heeding early warnings and instructions from district administrations. The public is encouraged to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App for timely updates and alerts.