The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned about potential flash floods and urban flooding in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and other regions due to ongoing monsoon rains.
According to the NDMA’s Emergencies Operation Centre, monsoon rains and thundershowers are forecasted for Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Islamabad, KP, and central and northeastern Punjab from July 17 to 21. These conditions may lead to flash flooding and urban flooding during this period.
On Monday, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicted new rain-wind and thundershower spells across all four provinces, including AJK and Gilgit Baltistan (GB), influenced by the current weather system.
The NDMA highlighted that areas like Swat, Mingora, Battagram, Mardan, Swabi, Haripur, Abbottabad, Kashmir, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, and Sialkot could see rain accumulation exceeding 50 millimetres under this monsoon spell.
The authority emphasized the risk of strong winds and lightning and urged all relevant departments to implement necessary precautions to mitigate flooding and other weather-related impacts.
Residents have been advised to stay indoors during severe weather, maintain a safe distance from electrical poles and wires, and take general precautions to safeguard against flooding and lightning.
Additionally, the NDMA issued an alert on Tuesday concerning potential glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in the mountainous areas of KP and GB, triggered by rising temperatures and heavy rains.
The KP and GB Disaster Management Authorities have been instructed to coordinate with pertinent departments to ensure preparedness and effective emergency response. Departments are also tasked with alerting local communities, tourists, and travellers in vulnerable areas, advising against unnecessary travel to ensure safety.
