Sindh, Karachi may experience rain within next 72 hours: NDMA

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Friday announced that parts of Sindh, including Karachi, are expected to experience rain, wind, and thundershowers within the next 72 hours.

This weather system is likely to affect areas such as Badin, Chhor, Dadu, Hyderabad, Jacobabad, Jamshoro, Karachi, Khairpur, Larkana, Mithi, Mitayari, Mirpurkhas, Nausheroferoze, Padidan, Sajawal, Sanghar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sukkur, Tando Allayar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tharparkar, Thatta, and Umarkot with rain and thundershowers in some locations until August 12.

Due to higher temperatures and prevailing weather conditions, there is also an increased risk of Glacier Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) events, flash floods, landslides, and mudslides in vulnerable areas of Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in districts like Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Astore, Gilgit, Skardu, Ghanche, Shigar, and nearby regions.

The NDMA has advised the public to avoid unnecessary movement in these areas, especially near discharge nullahs, streams, and rivers where rainfall is expected. Citizens are also instructed to ensure that roofs and windows are properly sealed to prevent water leakage, clear gutters and drainage systems to avoid water accumulation, and secure any loose items outside that could be affected by strong winds and heavy rain.

The authority further advised the public not to walk, swim, or drive through flooded waters and to use alternative routes to avoid flood-prone areas. Additionally, people should be cautious of open manholes and submerged obstacles, unplug electrical appliances during heavy rains to avoid short circuits, and avoid touching electrical equipment with wet hands.

The NDMA has also directed all relevant departments to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential effects of flooding and extreme weather.

The public is urged to stay informed by monitoring weather updates and alerts. The NDMA has also launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application, available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store, to provide timely alerts, advisories, and guidelines.