Monsoon Alert: Authorities warn of flood risk across Pakistan

As monsoon rains continue to batter various regions of the country, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert for heavy rainfall and potential flooding through July 10.

The authority has also warned of rising water levels in major rivers and urged citizens and local authorities to stay prepared for possible emergencies.

Islamabad and its twin city, Rawalpindi, received intermittent showers throughout Monday, offering relief from the intense heat and humidity. The skies remain overcast, and the Met Department has forecast heavy rains in various parts of the country today.

NDMA Issues Flood Risk Alert for Multiple Rivers across Pakistan:

The NDMA has warned that continued and upcoming heavy rainfall may trigger flooding in the Kabul, Indus, Chenab, Jhelum, and Swat rivers. Authorities have issued a low-level flood alert for key locations along the Indus River, including Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, and Taunsa. They have also placed Marala and Khanki on the Chenab River, as well as Mangla on the Jhelum, under active flood warnings.

The NDMA has predicted a rise in water flow at several critical points, raising the risk of flooding in the following areas:

• Kabul River at Nowshera
• Rivers in Swat and Panjkora
• Mountain streams in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur
• Rivers in Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, Sibi, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, and Musakhel, all likely to cause flooding
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• Tributaries of Pir Panjal, potentially impacting northeast Punjab
• Mountainous rivers of Gilgit-Baltistan, including Hunza, Shigar, Hispar, Khunjerab, Shimshal, Braldu, Hushe, and Saltoro

The NDMA has advised authorities and residents in these regions to stay alert and take precautionary measures.

Safety instructions:

The NDMA has directed residents in sensitive and flood-prone areas to take the following precautionary measures:

• Move valuables and livestock to safe locations
• Stock essential supplies, including food, water, and medicines, for three to five days
• Stay informed through official channels and local administration updates

Meanwhile, local governments and disaster response teams have been ordered to keep dewatering pumps, machinery, and emergency services on standby for immediate deployment.

Karachi weather update:

Karachi experienced overcast conditions on Monday, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 28°C to a maximum of 35°C.

Humidity levels reached 82%, and southwest winds blowing at 11 km/h offered slight relief from the heat. The Met Department has forecast light rain and drizzle in parts of the city, expected to continue from July 8 to 11.

Shehbaz Sharif Orders Nationwide High Alert Over Flood Threat:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered the NDMA, rescue agencies, and provincial administrations to stay on high alert in response to the forecasted flood situation. He emphasized the following key actions:

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• Implement immediate safety measures in flood-prone regions
• Strengthen coordination between the NDMA and provincial disaster management authorities (PDMAs)
• Actively engage with local administrations and relevant institutions
• Direct the PTA to ensure the public receives real-time, accurate updates on flood conditions
• Launch continuous public awareness campaigns to guide citizens about risks and safe zones

The Prime Minister also warned of an increased flood threat in lower Indus River districts due to the possible opening of Tarbela Dam’s spillway, urging authorities to make proactive preparations.

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