ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert over the risk of flooding as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds are expected across parts of the country over the next 72 hours.
According to the NDMA, upper parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to receive heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms. The weather may lead to a significant increase in water levels in rivers, streams and seasonal waterways.
The authority has warned of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas, while low-lying areas and roads near waterways could also be inundated.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, areas including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Astore, Skardu and Shigar have been identified as vulnerable to sudden flooding.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, vulnerable areas include Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur and Kotli.
Several areas of KP, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Haripur, are also at risk of flash flooding.
The NDMA further warned that Nowshera, Peshawar, Swabi and Mardan could experience urban flooding, with low-lying areas and connecting roads potentially coming under water.
According to the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), water flows are expected to increase in the Indus, Kabul, Swat, Panjkora, Kurram, Tochi, Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi rivers during the next 72 hours.
The NDMA has directed relevant departments and authorities to remain on high alert and take necessary measures to deal with any emergency situation.
Rawalpindi and Islamabad may also receive heavy rainfall, potentially causing a rise in water levels in Nullah Lai. Relevant authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant, particularly in low-lying areas.
The NDMA advised citizens to stay away from low-lying areas, rivers, streams and rainwater channels during heavy rainfall and avoid unnecessary travel. It also urged residents of mountainous areas to remain alert to the risk of flash floods and landslides.
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