ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Saturday warned of increasing flood risks across Pakistan as monsoon rains continue to raise water levels in major rivers and streams.
The NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) reported medium-level flooding at several points along the Chenab River, while low-level flooding was recorded in parts of the Indus, Ravi and Kabul rivers.
The authority also warned of possible flash floods in northern Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan over the next 24 to 48 hours.
Which Rivers Are Facing Flood Conditions?
According to the NDMA, medium-level flooding was reported at Khanki, Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge along the Chenab River.
The Palkhu Nala at Wazirabad was also flowing at a medium flood level.
Low-level flooding was reported at Kalabagh, Chashma and Taunsa on the Indus River, Marala and Trimmu on the Chenab River, Balloki and Sidhnai on the Ravi River, and Nowshera on the Kabul River.
The authority said water flows in the Chenab River were expected to increase further at Marala, Khanki, Qadirabad and Chiniot Bridge during the next 24 hours.
Water levels at Trimmu Barrage are also expected to rise to medium flood levels, the NDMA added.
Where Are Flash Flood and Urban Flooding Risks Expected?
The NDMA warned of flash flood risks in hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, seasonal streams in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of northern Balochistan.
Urban flooding risks have also been forecast for several districts of Punjab, including Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Jhang, Multan, Hafizabad and Lahore.
The authority advised provincial and district disaster management departments to maintain close monitoring of vulnerable areas and keep emergency response teams prepared.
What Safety Measures Has NDMA Issued?
The NDMA urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to flood-affected areas and advised motorists to check weather updates and road conditions before starting journeys.
The authority warned people against crossing flooded roads, streams or fast-moving water, saying even shallow currents could pose a danger to pedestrians and vehicles.
Residents were also advised to avoid stopping near riverbanks, steep slopes and narrow mountainous routes due to the risk of landslides, debris flows and sudden flash floods.
The NDMA directed relevant departments to ensure emergency preparedness, continuous monitoring of vulnerable locations and rapid restoration of roads in case of disruptions.
Pakistan experiences heavy monsoon rainfall every year, often causing river flooding, urban flooding and landslides in vulnerable regions. Authorities have increased monitoring as rainfall activity continues across the country.