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Authorities Warn of Widespread Flooding Across Northern Regions
Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high alert for potential floods and flash floods across northern parts of the country, with heavy rainfall expected from July 19 to 23. The warning comes as a cloudburst in Neelum Valley has already triggered severe flooding, washing away houses and shops.
Flood Alert Details
The NDMA has forecast heavy rainfall in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and upper Punjab over the next several days. Authorities have warned of possible flood surges in River Chenab near Marala and the upper reaches of River Jhelum near Mangla. High flows are also likely in River Kabul and its tributaries, with Nowshera expected to remain on high alert.
Vulnerable Areas Identified
Rivers including Kabul, Panjkora, Swat, and Chitral may witness increased water levels, while districts including Malakand, Shangla, Kohistan, Mansehra, and Haripur face risks of heavy rains and flooding. Urban flooding has been predicted in major cities, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore, Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Sheikhupura.
Cloudburst Triggers Flooding in Neelum Valley
A cloudburst in Neelum Valley’s Katha Peeran stream has already triggered severe flooding, washing away several houses and shops located near the stream. Rescue teams have reached the site and relief operations are underway, with no loss of life reported so far. The intense flooding also disrupted traffic flow on Shahrah-e-Neelum near Shah Kot.
Safety Instructions for Citizens
The NDMA has directed relevant departments to remain alert and keep emergency machinery and rescue teams on standby. Citizens have been advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary movement
- Stay away from storm drains and flooded roads
- Travelers and tourists are urged to avoid mountainous and landslide-prone routes
