ISLAMABAD:
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert, warning of heavy rainfall and potential flooding across Pakistan between August 23 and 30. Authorities and citizens have been urged to remain vigilant, while tourists have been advised to avoid northern regions due to heightened risks of landslides and flash floods.
According to the NDMA’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), three rain-bearing systems are likely to enter the country during this period. These systems are expected to unleash widespread downpours, trigger urban flooding in low-lying areas, and cause landslides in mountainous terrain.
Northern and Central Pakistan
From August 23 to 27, torrential rains accompanied by strong winds are forecast in Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Major urban centres including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Gujranwala face the threat of urban flooding, while hilly regions may experience landslides.
In Punjab, heavy showers are predicted in Rawalpindi and its adjoining districts, with hill torrents likely to swell in Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and surrounding areas. KP is also expected to witness intense downpours in Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, and the Hazara Division, posing risks of flash floods and landslides. Gilgit, Skardu, and Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan may be severely impacted, potentially disrupting road access.
Sindh and Balochistan
From August 27 to 30, coastal districts of Sindh including Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, and Tharparkar are expected to receive heavy downpours. Interior Sindh is also likely to be affected.
In Balochistan, intermittent heavy showers are forecast in Quetta, Ziarat, Zhob, Loralai, Barkhan, Musakhel, and Kohlu between August 24 and 25, and again from August 27 to 30. Flash floods are feared in Dera Murad Jamali, Usta Muhammad, Awaran, Naseerabad, and Lehri.
River Flows and Flood Risks
With reservoirs already nearing full capacity, river levels are expected to rise significantly. The Indus River could surge to 500,000 cusecs at Taunsa, Guddu, and Kalabagh, while heavy rains may swell the Ravi and Chenab, threatening nearby settlements.
Public Advisory
The NDMA confirmed that it is closely monitoring the evolving weather situation in coordination with provincial authorities. Rescue and relief agencies have been placed on high alert. Citizens, particularly those living in flood-prone or mountainous regions, have been strongly advised to remain cautious.
Officials have also urged tourists to avoid travel to northern areas during this period due to the increased danger of landslides and severe rainfall.
