Pakistan weather update: NDMA issues alert for more rains & floods across country

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert for heavy monsoon rains and possible flooding from June 29 to July 5, warning of possible landslides, flash floods, and urban inundation in several areas.

According to the NDMA, heavy rains are likely in Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, Potohar region, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Haripur, Balakot, Murree and Galiyat, which may lead to landslides and river overflow in hilly areas.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, there is a risk of urban flooding in cities including Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat, Swat, Chitral, Dera Ismail Khan, Bannu and Mardan.

There is also a risk of water level rise in rivers and their tributaries of Kabul, Swat, Chitral and Hunza.

In Punjab, heavy rains are forecast in Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Narowal, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Sheikhupura and Kasur, along with possible flash floods in low-lying areas.

The NDMA also identified the risk of flooding and landslides due to heavy rains in Hazara, Malakand, Azad Kashmir and Pir Panjal areas.

Heavy rains are expected in Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta and Badin between July 2 and 5, which may lead to urban flooding in the southern region.

According to the NDMA, there is a possibility of flooding in rivers and streams in Hazara, Malakand, Azad Kashmir and Pir Panjal and landslides in hilly areas.

The NDMA has warned that strong winds and heavy rains can cause weak structures, walls, electricity poles and billboards to collapse. Reduced visibility during dust storms or thunderstorms can increase the risk of road accidents.

Citizens are advised to avoid crossing flooded rivers and streams, and stay away from vulnerable infrastructure, trees, and power lines.