Flood Warning: NDMA issues advisory amid heavy rainfalls across Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a wide-ranging advisory in the form of an advisory given by its National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), issuing alerts for potential flooding and hydrological risk in various parts of Pakistan as a new westerly wave approaches from August 5, bringing enhanced rainfalls to upper and central parts until August 10.

The expected weather system is likely to cause an increase in river flows, city flooding, and localized flash floods in susceptible regions. Consequently, higher flows will be experienced in all the major rivers, especially the Chenab and Jhelum.

River Chenab at Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad will most probably see medium to high flood levels, and River Jhelum and its tributaries above Mangla will also reach high flood levels.

The River Kabul at Nowshera will most probably reach low flood levels. River Swat and Panjkora, as well as connected streams and nullahs, may swell up to medium flows as a result of recurring rain in their catchment areas.

Presently, Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa, and Guddu Barrages are at lower flood levels, but additional rises in inflows and outflows could bring them to medium flood levels.

River Hunza and River Shigar in Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to experience increased flows, with possible localized flash floods in their tributaries such as Hispar, Khunjerab, Shimshal, Braldu, Hushe, and Saltoro Rivers. In Balochistan, river systems in Musakhel, Sherani, Zhob, and Sibi districts would also swell because of impending rains. Tarbela Dam is 90% full, Mangla Dam is 60% full, and increased storage is expected over the next few days.

NDMA requests people residing on the banks of rivers, streams, and nullahs to remain attentive towards sudden water level surges, particularly at night or during heavy rain periods.

People are recommended to remain informed through official flood announcements on television, radio, mobile messages, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app. Vulnerable communities must map out safe routes of escape and preposition emergency kits, dry food, clean water, and basic medicines. Livestock, valuables, and cars must be relocated to higher ground.

Urban areas, especially in central and northeastern Punjab, must prepare dewatering machinery to manage excess water due to heavy rain. The public is strongly advised to avoid crossing low bridges, causeways, and flooded roads, as even 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult, and 12 inches is enough to carry away most vehicles.

NDMA is monitoring the situation around the clock and remains in close coordination with provincial and district authorities for a proactive response and mitigation.

NDMA is keeping a close watch on the situation with the help of NEOC and is in constant coordination with provincial and district disaster management departments to respond in good timely manner.

Citizens are urged to be updated through official means and access the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application for timely alerts and guidelines.