NDMA issues nationwide storm & flood alert

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), has issued a weather alert forecasting thunderstorms, strong winds, and possible hailstorms in various parts of the country over the next 12 to 24 hours.

According to the NDMA, the current weather pattern is consistent with its earlier seasonal outlook issued three to four months ago for the April to June period.

In Punjab, several districts including Murree, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Talagang, Gujar Khan, Jhelum, Sialkot, Narowal, Layyah, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sahiwal are expected to receive rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms, with isolated hailstorms also likely.

Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are also expected to experience thunderstorms and rainfall in areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Ghanche, Shigar, Kharmang, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, Rawalakot, Kotli, Mirpur, and Bhimber.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain with strong winds and thunderstorms is expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Mingora, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Peshawar, Mardan, Bajaur, Parachinar, Charsadda, Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, and Dera Ismail Khan, with chances of hailstorms in some areas.

The NDMA has further warned of heavy rainfall between May 2 and May 5 in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Kashmir, raising the risk of flash floods, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and landslides. Areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh, and Rawalakot are particularly vulnerable.

Authorities cautioned that rising temperatures could accelerate glacier and snowmelt, increasing the risk of flooding, while heavy rains may trigger overflow in streams and cause sudden flood situations in low-lying areas.

Landslides and debris flow may disrupt road networks in mountainous regions, potentially affecting transportation and causing damage to small bridges, irrigation systems, livestock, and local communities.

The NDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, refrain from crossing floodwaters or weak bridges, and stay away from glacial lakes and unstable slopes. People have also been urged to move livestock and valuables to safer locations and follow instructions issued by local authorities.

Reduced visibility and slippery roads due to rain and strong winds may lead to traffic disruptions, while weak structures could suffer partial damage.

Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official advisories and use the NDMA Disaster Alert App for timely updates. Relevant departments have been directed to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures.