NDMA Issues Alert for Heavy Rains and Potential Flooding Across Pakistan

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning concerning potential episodes of substantial rainfall and resultant flooding in diverse regions nationwide, spanning from August 23 to August 30.

The national agency’s advisory indicates that Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are anticipated to experience scattered showers and thunderstorms. It further cautioned that localized instances of intense rainfall might instigate flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) within mountainous valley regions.

The authority has instructed provincial and district administrations to enhance their monitoring of glacial locations, execute evacuation exercises in vulnerable communities, and maintain rescue teams on heightened alert.

Additionally, civic and law enforcement entities have been directed to formulate contingency plans, accumulate essential supplies, and ensure the swift clearance of roads that may be obstructed by floods or landslides.

The NDMA has urged the public to refrain from non-essential travel in flood-prone areas, particularly in proximity to rivers and rapidly flowing streams. The warning emphasized the potential for vehicles to be swept away.

Residents in low-lying zones have been instructed to remain vigilant and adhere to evacuation protocols if instructed.

Tourists have been cautioned against venturing on treks around glaciers, capturing photographs near perilous locations, or exploring unstable terrains.

The NDMA has also projected significant rainfall across portions of Sindh and Balochistan during the specified timeframe.

In Sindh, areas including Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Tharparkar, Hyderabad, Jamshoro, and Nawabshah are anticipated to receive rainfall during this period. Additional districts, such as Dadu, Khairpur, Sukkur, Ghotki, and Larkana, have also been placed on alert.

In upper Sindh, regions like Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Kashmore, and Shaheed Benazirabad may encounter substantial showers.

In Balochistan, areas including Lasbela, Khuzdar, Awaran, and Qalat could witness considerable rainfall. Coastal communities such as Gwadar, Turbat, Kech, and Panjgur are also expected to be affected.

The spell of wet weather could extend to Quetta, Ziarat, Zhob, and Loralai, while intermittent showers are predicted for Barkhan, Musakhel, Dera Bugti, and Kohlu.

The NDMA advisory suggests that the rains may lead to urban flooding and landslides in susceptible areas, prompting a warning for individuals to exercise caution.

The Indus River’s flow rates may increase significantly, particularly at Guddu, Taunsa, and Kalabagh, while the Ravi and Chenab rivers are also expected to experience increased discharge.

Authorities stated that emergency resources will be strategically deployed, evacuation centers will be prepared, and early warning systems will be activated to assist communities throughout the period of increased rainfall.