The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued an alert on Wednesday, cautioning about imminent flash floods and urban flooding in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and other regions of Pakistan owing to monsoon rains.
According to NDMA’s Emergencies Operation Centre, monsoon rains and thundershowers are expected in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Islamabad, KP, and central and northeastern Punjab from July 17 to 21. These intermittent spells may lead to flash flooding and urban flooding.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) earlier stated that all provinces, including AJK and Gilgit Baltistan (GB), will experience new bouts of rain, wind, and thundershowers due to the prevailing weather system.
NDMA emphasized significant rainfall in various areas under the monsoon spell, including Swat, Mingora, Battagram, Mardan, Swabi, Haripur, Abbottabad, Kashmir, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, and Sialkot, with accumulations potentially exceeding 50 millimetres.
The authority highlighted the likelihood of strong winds and lightning strikes, urging relevant departments to take necessary precautions to mitigate potential flooding and severe weather impacts.
Residents have been advised to take preventive measures against flooding, including avoiding outdoor activities during adverse weather conditions and maintaining a safe distance from electrical infrastructure.
Earlier, NDMA had also alerted to possible glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in mountainous regions of KP and GB due to rising temperatures and anticipated heavy rainfall.
NDMA directed the provincial Disaster Management Authorities of KP and GB to coordinate with relevant agencies to ensure preparedness and prompt emergency responses.
Local departments have been instructed to inform communities, tourists, and travelers in at-risk areas about the potential hazards. Both locals and tourists are advised to refrain from unnecessary travel during this period of heightened weather activity.
