NDMA issues flood alert until July 24

Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide flood and landslide alert until July 24, warning residents of possible flash floods, rising river levels, and dangerous weather conditions caused by ongoing monsoon rains.

According to the NDMA spokesperson, heavy rainfall is expected to increase water flow in rivers, seasonal streams, and mountain channels across several parts of the country. Authorities have advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from flood-prone areas, and follow official safety instructions.

The alert highlights a significant risk of flash flooding in Gilgit-Baltistan, particularly in the districts of Hunza, Shigar, and Ghanche. Rivers including Shimshal, Hunza, Chapursan, Shigar, Shyok, and Hushe are expected to experience a rapid rise in water levels.

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), water levels may increase in the Jhelum, Neelum, Poonch, and Mahl rivers, as well as Betar Nullah, Bhimber Nullah, Kanshi River, and several tributaries connected to the Jhelum and Poonch river systems.

The NDMA has also warned of possible flash floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, affecting the Chitral, Kabul, Swat, and Panjkora rivers. Local streams in Khyber, Kurram, Orakzai, Kohat, Bannu, Karak, Hangu, Lakki Marwat, North and South Waziristan, Bajaur, Mohmand, Mansehra, Buner, and Swabi are also at risk due to intense monsoon rainfall.

In Punjab, flood threats remain high in the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, the Soan River, and the Potohar region. Similar conditions are expected in northeastern Balochistan. The NDMA further warned of high-level flooding in the Chenab River near Marala and the upper reaches of the Jhelum River near Mangla. Several seasonal streams, including Dora, Dota, Dwara, Bhimber, Halsey, Aik, Plakhoo, Bein, Basantar, Dek, and Sukhi Nullah, may also experience sudden increases in water flow.

The authority also noted that any release of water from India’s Thein, Pong, and Bhakra dams could significantly increase water levels in the Ravi and Sutlej rivers, potentially worsening flood conditions downstream.

The NDMA has urged citizens to stay informed through official weather updates, avoid crossing flooded roads or streams, and cooperate with local authorities to ensure public safety during the ongoing monsoon season.