New series of rains to start across the country from today

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert from today to June 15 in view of the threat of heavy rains, flash floods and landslides in the upper areas of the country.

According to the NDMA, rains with gusty winds, strong winds and thunderstorms are likely in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir.

Due to the rains, flash floods may occur at the local level, while there is also a risk of flooding in rivers and rainwater waterways.

According to the agency, there is a risk of flash flooding in the mountainous areas of Chitral, Shangla, Kohistan, Battagram and Mansehra. Similarly, flooding may also occur in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh and Rawalakot of Azad Kashmir due to heavy rains.

There is a risk of flooding in rivers and streams in the districts of Ghizer, Diamer, Gilgit, Tangir, Daril and Gips Yasin of Gilgit-Baltistan. The NDMA has warned that landslides may also occur in Gilgit-Baltistan and adjacent mountainous areas between June 12 and 15.

According to the alert, temporary closures and travel difficulties are possible at various points on the Karakoram Highway and Jaglot-Skardu Road.

Citizens have been directed to avoid unnecessary stay near low-lying areas and rivers, while tourists should postpone travel to mountainous areas during heavy rains.

On the other hand, the Meteorological Department has predicted rains in various areas of Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan.