NDMA issues monsoon emergency warning

Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) through its National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has issued a warning regarding potential monsoon-related hazards across most parts of the country until July 25th.

The alert highlights a significant risk of landslides and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF) in the northern regions, which could lead to flash flooding. Areas particularly vulnerable to GLOF include Reshun, Brep, Booni, Sardar Gol, Thallo 1 & 2, Hanarchi, Hindoor, Darkot, Badswat, Ashkoman, and Arkari.

The continuous monsoon rains are expected to significantly increase water flow in major rivers, including the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, and Kabul.

Specifically, low to medium-level flooding is anticipated in the Chenab River at Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad. Increased water flow is also expected in the upper reaches of the Jhelum River at Mangla and in the Kabul River at Nowshera.

Furthermore, the Indus River at Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa, and Guddu Barrages is also likely to experience heightened water levels.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, there is a strong possibility of high water levels in the Swat and Panjkora rivers and their adjoining nullahs. Gilgit-Baltistan is bracing for potential flooding in the Hunza and Shigar rivers. Flash flood situations could rapidly develop in HIsper, Khunjerab, Shimshal, Braldo, Hoshay, and Saltoro, along with their connected nullahs.

Balochistan’s districts of Musakhel, Sherani, Zhob, and Sibi are also on alert for surging water levels in their local nullahs. The persistent rainfall in northern areas poses an increased risk of landslides in mountainous terrain. Due to landslides and the prevailing flood situation, both the Karakoram Highway and Babusar Top have been completely blocked from both sides.

Tourists are strongly advised to avoid traveling to mountainous areas until July 25^th.