ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Wednesday issued a warning for heavy rainfall and potential flooding in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) over the next 12 to 24 hours.
The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) reported intermittent showers in KP districts including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Buner, and Abbottabad. Authorities cautioned that the downpours could trigger flash floods in low-lying areas, swell hill torrents, and cause landslides in mountainous regions.
In Punjab, northeastern districts such as Gujranwala, Lahore, Sialkot, Jhelum, and Narowal may experience heavy rainfall, raising the risk of urban and rural flooding. GB and AJK regions, including Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, Neelum, Muzaffarabad, and Rawalakot, are expected to receive light to moderate rains, with landslides and overflowing streams possible.
The NDMA also warned that strong winds and thunderstorms could uproot weak trees and disrupt electricity supplies. Residents, farmers, and local authorities were urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the NDMA to closely monitor rescue and relief operations. The NEOC remains fully operational 24/7, coordinating with civil and military institutions.
People living near rivers and waterways have been advised to relocate to safer areas. The NDMA called on residents in vulnerable regions to cooperate with local authorities during evacuations, avoid unnecessary travel in flood-affected zones, keep emergency kits ready, and store essential documents safely.
The public can also access updates and guidance through the NDMA’s “Disaster Alert” mobile application.
