ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued an alert over the possibility of flash floods in northern and upper parts of the country during the next 48 hours.
According to the NDMA, rainfall is expected across Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and the Potohar region, which could trigger sudden flooding in vulnerable areas. Increased water flows in rivers and streams are also anticipated following the expected rains.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, areas including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Skardu, Astore and Shigar may experience flash flooding. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Nowshera, Swabi and Mardan are among the areas at risk.
The alert also covers several districts of Azad Kashmir, including Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhnoti, Mirpur and Kotli.
In the Potohar region, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal and Jhelum could face localized flooding and rising water levels in streams and nullahs.
Several areas of Punjab, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Kasur, Okara, Mandi Bahauddin, Wazirabad, Hafizabad and Sargodha, have also been identified as potentially vulnerable. Low-lying and urban areas of Nowshera, Swabi and Mardan may face additional flood risks.
The NDMA has directed local administrations to pre-position emergency resources in vulnerable locations and ensure arrangements for the safe evacuation of communities where necessary.
The authority urged residents, tourists and travellers to stay away from rivers, streams and vulnerable water channels and avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges or areas with strong water currents.
The NDMA warned that monsoon rains can significantly increase the risk of flash floods, landslides and debris flows in mountainous areas. Travellers have been advised to check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions before starting their journeys and avoid unnecessary travel whenever severe weather warnings are issued.
The authority emphasized that floodwater should never be crossed on foot or by vehicle, even when it appears shallow, as fast-moving water can sweep away people and vehicles.
Tourists visiting mountainous areas have also been advised to remain vigilant as water levels in seasonal streams can rise suddenly during heavy rainfall.
The NDMA urged the public to follow instructions issued by local authorities and completely avoid roads closed for safety reasons. The authority said it is maintaining continuous coordination with relevant departments and providing timely information and alerts regarding potential hazards.
Citizens have also been advised to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for timely updates and emergency information.
In case of a potential flood emergency, citizens can dial 911 for assistance.
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