ISLAMABAD: A strong southwest monsoon system, intensified by a westerly wave, has prompted the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) to issue impact-based weather alerts across Pakistan from July 19 to 25 (Saturday to Friday). The alerts warn of potential flash floods, urban inundation, and glacial surges in vulnerable areas.
Regions under alert include parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Sindh, and Islamabad, where heavy rainfall is forecast to disrupt daily life, particularly in low-lying and mountainous zones.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has directed all provincial and district disaster management bodies to stay on high alert. Authorities have been instructed to clear drainage systems, mobilize emergency response teams, and prepare for potential evacuation or relief operations.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, light to moderate rains are expected to persist through July 25, with a high risk of flash floods in upper catchments of major rivers. Rising water levels in River Kabul at Nowshera and tributaries like Swat, Panjkora, Bara, and Kalpani Nullah may trigger flooding, especially due to glacial melting. Transport disruptions are likely in hilly regions.
In Punjab and Islamabad, strong monsoon currents will impact upper and central areas from July 21 to 24. Cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Sialkot, Sahiwal, and others may face urban flooding due to heavy rain. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.
In Sindh, from July 19 to 24, moderate rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Thatta, Larkana, Nawabshah, and other districts. Urban flooding may affect roads, underpasses, and residential areas.
NDMA advises citizens to avoid unnecessary travel in vulnerable regions, stay indoors during heavy rain, keep household drains clear, and secure essential items. People are also encouraged to monitor official instructions via the NDMA Disaster Alert App.
Emergency preparedness measures are critical in the coming week as rainfall intensifies across various parts of the country.
