ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert for heavy rains and potential flooding until July 10. Flood risks are high in Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan.
Key areas under threat include northeastern Punjab, southern Balochistan, and Azad Kashmir. The Chenab River may experience low-level flooding at Marala and Qadirabad, while the Kabul, Swat, Jhelum, Hunza, and other rivers could see dangerous water surges. Flash floods are possible in streams near the Pir Panjal range (Punjab) and Kirthar range (Balochistan), particularly affecting Awaran, Khuzdar, and Jhal Magsi.
Heavy rains have already submerged low-lying areas and collapsed dozens of houses. The NDMA urges residents in vulnerable zones to:
– Move valuables/livestock to safer locations
– Prepare emergency kits with 3–5 days of food, water, and medicine
– Avoid rivers, bridges, and flooded roads
– Monitor alerts via TV, mobile, or the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” app.
Local authorities are instructed to keep drainage pumps ready for immediate response. NDMA Chairman linked the extreme weather to global climate
change.
