The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert in response to the predicted heavy monsoon rains that could lead to flooding across various regions of Pakistan from June 29 to July 5. The authority, through its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), has issued multiple weather alerts urging preparedness for potential flash floods and urban flooding.
The advisory indicates that widespread rain, coupled with wind and thunderstorms, will affect several regions, with isolated heavy downpours expected. The NEOC has urged authorities to remain vigilant and advised the public to follow official guidance to mitigate the effects of these weather conditions.
In Punjab, moderate to heavy rain is anticipated, particularly in cities like Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Narowal, and Lahore. The authority also warned of potential urban flooding in low-lying areas of central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including cities such as Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, and Kohat.
The risk of flash flooding is particularly high in the northern regions, including Hazara and Malakand Divisions. The Potohar region, including areas like Attock, Chakwal, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad, faces a significant risk of urban flooding, especially from 9:00 pm to 4:00 am on June 29.
Karachi and other cities in Sindh, including Hyderabad, Thatta, and Badin, are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 2 to 5. The NEOC has highlighted concerns about poor drainage infrastructure in these cities, which may exacerbate urban flooding.
The recent rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have already claimed the lives of at least 20 individuals, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), with numerous homes damaged by floods and landslides. In Punjab, 15 people, including eight children, have died as a result of collapsing structures during heavy rainfall.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that the threat of heavy rainfall and flash flooding remains high, and the public is urged to take precautions through Tuesday.
