NDMA issues flash flood warning amid heavy rains

LAHORE: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has released a weather warning, indicating heavy rain across several districts in Punjab and Azad Kashmir in the next 12 to 24 hours.

Heavy rains are predicted in Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Kasur, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, and Pakpattan as per the alert. These rains can lead to city flooding in low-lying areas and flood streams and drains.

In the mountains of Kashmir, such as Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli, periodic rain is predicted during the same time, increasing the possibility of landslides and flash floods.

Heavy water run-off in mountain rivers has been warned about by the NDMA, as it can cut off road networks and traffic mobility.

A separate notice had already been given for increasing the level of water in the Sutlej River and the chances of flooding. On this, massive-scale evacuation operations are in progress in the surrounding areas. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Rescue 1122 personnel, and Pakistan Army engineers are working actively on relief and rescue operations.

The public has been urged to stay clear of rivers, streams, and exposed low-lying areas, not to travel unless necessary, and stay informed through TV, radio, mobile, and the NDMA’s Disaster Alert App.