NDMA Issues Flood and Landslide Alert for GB and AJK

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning regarding potential floods and landslides in Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). This alert is due to anticipated monsoon rains expected from July 28 to 31.

The NEOC stated that rainfall is expected in areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Shigar, as well as Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh. These conditions may precipitate flooding. Furthermore, substantial rainfall in mountainous areas elevates the risk of landslides.

The agency cautioned that in the Chitral Valley, specifically Buni and Reshun, the combination of rainfall and glacial melt could lead to increased water flow in the Chitral River. Urban flooding is also a concern for Muzaffarabad and Bagh due to the forecast of heavy downpours.

The NDMA has instructed relevant departments, local administrations, and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) to implement proactive measures. These include ensuring personnel readiness, preparing machinery and rescue teams, and maintaining vigilance to effectively manage any potential emergency situations.

This warning follows a forecast from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicting significant rainfall from July 29 to July 31, likely contributing to flash floods in the tributaries of the Kabul River.

Across the nation, various regions have already experienced the impact of intense rainfall, resulting in flash floods and landslides. The death toll has tragically reached 279, with eight additional fatalities reported in the last 24 hours, alongside 676 injuries.

Punjab has been most severely affected, reporting 151 deaths and 536 injuries. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has recorded 64 deaths and 80 injuries, while Sindh has reported 25 deaths and 40 injuries. Balochistan has also suffered 20 deaths and four injuries.

In the northern regions, Gilgit-Baltistan has reported nine deaths and four injuries, and Azad Kashmir has reported two deaths and ten injuries. Islamabad has confirmed eight deaths and three injuries.

Hundreds of homes have sustained damage, leading to family displacement and livestock losses as floods continue to impact both rural and urban communities.

Significant property damage has been reported, with 362 homes damaged in the last day alone, bringing the total number of affected homes to 1,553. Additionally, at least 374 livestock have been lost.