NDMA flood alert and heavy rain forecast across Pakistan until July 23
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh weather alert for different parts of the country. The authority warned that heavy rainfall, flash floods, river flooding and urban flooding could affect several regions over the next few days.
According to the NDMA, a strong monsoon spell combined with a powerful western weather system has entered Pakistan. The weather system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and upper Punjab from July 20 to July 23.
The authority warned that the intense rainfall could trigger flash floods and dangerous hill torrents in many areas. People living near streams and mountainous regions have been advised to remain alert.
The NDMA said there is a risk of flood waves in the Chenab River at Marala and in the upper areas of the Jhelum River near Mangla. Water levels may also rise in the Kabul River and its tributaries, especially the Panjkora, Swat and Chitral rivers.
Officials warned that these rivers could overflow if heavy rainfall continues. Local authorities have been directed to closely monitor the situation.
The weather alert identified several areas that could face flash flooding. These include Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Muridke, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Murree, Galliyat, Lower Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Malakand, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Gilgit-Baltistan and different parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
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The NDMA also warned of severe urban flooding in low-lying areas of Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Hafizabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura and several other cities. Heavy rain could quickly flood roads, streets and underpasses, causing traffic disruption and other problems.
The authority has instructed all relevant departments to keep emergency machinery and rescue teams on high alert. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and follow official safety instructions.
The NDMA also urged people to stay away from rain-fed streams, flooded roads, riverbanks and areas at risk of landslides. The public has been advised to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App to receive verified weather updates and safety guidance.
The latest weather warning shows that several parts of Pakistan could face dangerous conditions in the coming days. Following official advice and avoiding flood-prone areas can help protect lives and reduce damage.
