NDMA Issues Flash Flood Alert for Northern Pakistan Amid Heavy Rains

The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a flash flood alert for northern Pakistan, warning of possible flooding in multiple regions over the next 48 hours due to forecast heavy rains. The alert covers Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and the Potohar region, including major cities such as Islamabad and Lahore.

According to the NEOC statement, flash flooding is expected in several districts of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Skardu, Astore, and Shigar. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, vulnerable areas include Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Nowshera, Swabi, and Mardan. Azad Jammu and Kashmir is also at risk, with districts like Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur, and Kotli under threat.

In Punjab, cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Kasur, Okara, Mandi Bahauddin, Wazirabad, Hafizabad, and Sargodha may experience flooding. The Potohar region, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum, is also expected to face high flows in streams and nullahs.

The NDMA has directed local administrations to preposition essential resources in flood-prone areas and ensure safe evacuation procedures where necessary. Residents, tourists, and travelers are advised to avoid crossing flooded streams, submerged roads, or bridges and to follow official traffic advisories. The authority also warns of increased risks of landslides, debris flows, and sudden flash floods in mountainous regions due to monsoon rains.

Authorities urge people to check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling and to avoid unnecessary journeys if heavy rain or hazard warnings are issued. The NDMA cautions that even shallow floodwater with strong currents can be dangerous, capable of sweeping away people and vehicles. Travelers are advised to stay away from riverbanks and seasonal streams where water levels can rise rapidly during the monsoon.

The NDMA is maintaining coordination with relevant institutions to provide timely updates and alerts about potential hazards. The public is encouraged to follow safety instructions and avoid roads closed by authorities.

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