Flash Flood Warning: Northern Punjab, KP, and AJK at High Risk

News Desk 

Islamabad: The NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has anticipated significant rainfall across various regions of Pakistan until July 9th.

The affected areas include northeastern parts of Punjab, particularly the catchment areas of eastern rivers, Potohar, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), southern Sindh, Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), according to a news release on Thursday.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected, which may lead to urban flooding and rapid rises in water levels in nullahs, potentially triggering flash floods in northern Punjab (Sialkot), KP, and AJK. Additionally, high discharge levels are anticipated in the eastern rivers, with the Sutlej River expected to reach a low flood stage with around 50,000 cusecs of water, and the Kabul River predicted to reach a medium flood level with approximately 95,000 cusecs.

These conditions are expected to persist until July 9th. There is also a concern about additional releases from Indian reservoirs such as Salal, Bhakra, and Pong Dam, which could impact the Chenab and Sutlej rivers.

Gilgit-Baltistan is forecasted to experience moderate to heavy rainfall until July 8th, potentially leading to flash flooding in local nullahs, especially in areas like Chigar and Khaplu.

Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, northern Balochistan, and AJK may experience slightly heavy rainfall until July 8th. Persistent heavy to moderate rains could trigger localized landslides along the Karakoram Highway, particularly in areas like Hunza, District Nagar, Gilgit, Diamir, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra, and Abbottabad.

This may disrupt traffic flows and isolate remote areas from main roads.

The NDMA has urged all relevant authorities and the public to take necessary precautions to mitigate potential impacts from flooding and landslides. Emergency response teams are on alert, and resources are being mobilized for a swift response to any emergencies that may arise.

Tourists are advised to avoid traveling to these regions during this period. The public is encouraged to remain vigilant, follow instructions from local authorities, stay informed through the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile app for timely alerts, and closely monitor weather reports.