Flood alert issued for rivers across Punjab

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a flood warning for all rivers and nearby streams in Punjab, starting from July 21.

The warning highlights the risk of high water levels and potential flooding. Major rivers such as the Chenab, Jhelum, Ravi, Sutlej, and Indus may see a significant rise in water levels by July 22, increasing the chances of flooding. Areas near these rivers, especially low-lying regions and nearby streams, are at higher risk.

The PDMA has instructed all commissioners and deputy commissioners in the province to stay on high alert and ensure all necessary safety measures are in place. Citizens have been urged to remain cautious and call the PDMA helpline at 1129 in case of an emergency. The situation is being closely monitored, and more updates will be shared as needed.

Earlier today, the PDMA also forecast continued monsoon rains in most parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) from July 20 to July 25. Heavy rainfall is expected in upper areas like Dir, Swat, Chitral, Kohistan, Malakand, Shangla, and Battagram. Other districts such as Buner, Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Tank, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan are also likely to receive rain.

Rainfall is also expected in tribal areas including Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Waziristan, and Orakzai, along with Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Haripur. Cities like Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi, Hangu, and Kurram may experience thunderstorms and rain during this period.

PDMA has also warned about the risk of landslides in hilly areas and flooding in smaller streams and rivers. District administrations have been asked to take precautionary steps in advance.

So far, at least six people have died in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. According to the PDMA, those who died in the last 24 hours include a woman, a man, and four children, while one person has been injured. The rain has also partially damaged three homes in the province, according to the PDMA report.