Flood Alert Issued as New Monsoon Spell Hits Pakistan

News Desk

Islamabad: A fresh spell of monsoon rains has entered Pakistan, prompting the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial disaster management bodies to issue flood warnings for various regions across the country.

According to the NDMA, widespread thundershowers are expected from July 13 to 17 in Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Kashmir, and eastern Balochistan under the influence of an active monsoon system. The heavy downpour may lead to both riverine and flash flooding, particularly in vulnerable and low-lying areas.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast significant rainfall over the coming days, triggering a heavy rain and flood alert from the NDMA for several urban and mountainous regions.

In its advisory, the NDMA warned of rising water levels in major rivers, including the Kabul, Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum. Moderate flooding is expected at key locations such as Tarbela, Kala Bagh, Chashma, and Taunsa, while light flooding could occur at Guddu Barrage, as well as upstream areas like Marala and Khanki on the Chenab River, and Nowshera along the Kabul River.

Mountainous regions of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur may experience high water flow in hill torrents, while localised flash floods are anticipated in Swat, Panjkora, and adjoining streams. Southern and western Balochistan—particularly Khuzdar, Lasbela, Awaran, and Kalat—have also been identified as high-risk areas for sudden flooding.

Central Balochistan districts, including Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, Sibi, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, and Musakhel, may witness rising water levels in rivers and seasonal streams.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Punjab has reiterated the NDMA’s warnings, urging local administrations to stay on high alert. Emergency response teams have been instructed to remain prepared for potential rescue and relief operations.

As of Saturday, Tarbela Dam has reached 74% of its storage capacity, while Mangla Dam stands at 44%. Authorities have advised residents living near riverbanks, streams, and low-lying areas to remain vigilant—particularly during night hours.

Citizens have been urged not to cross bridges, streams, or inundated roads during periods of heavy water flow. The NDMA emphasized the need for close coordination among district administrations, irrigation departments, and law enforcement agencies.

Officials stated that real-time monitoring of the situation is underway, and the public will be kept informed through timely alerts and advisories.