ISLAMABAD: NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center on Thursday warned that moderate to heavy rainfall until July 9 may cause urban flooding and induce rapid rises in water levels in streams, triggering flash flooding across the northern regions of Punjab (Sialkot), KP and AJ&K.

The affected areas included northeastern parts of Punjab, particularly the eastern rivers’ catchment areas, Potohar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), southern Sindh, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).

In a statement issued here, National Disaster Management Authority said that additionally, this precipitation was expected to result in high discharge levels within the eastern rivers. Sutlej River was expected to experience a low flood stage with approximately 50,000 cusecs of water while Kabul River was expected to reach a medium flood level with approximately 95,000 cusecs.

NDMA said that these conditions were expected between until July 9. “Extreme rainfall may also lead to additional releases from Indian reservoirs, including Salal, Bhakra, and Pong Dam, which could directly impact the Chenab and Sutlej rivers.”

Moreover, NEOC has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in Gilgit-Baltistan until July 8, which may trigger flash flooding in local drains. Areas such as Chigar and Khaplu were at risk of flash flooding during heavy rains. Slightly heavy rainfall was expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, northern parts of Balochistan, and AJ&K until July 8, 2024.

The persistent heavy to moderate rains may cause localised landslides at Karakoram Highway along Hunza and some of areas of District Nagar, Gilgit, Diamir, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra and Abbottabad, potentially disrupting traffic flows and cutting off far-flung areas from main roads.

NDMA urged all relevant authorities and the public to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential impacts of flooding and landslides. Emergency response teams had been alerted, and resources were being mobilized to ensure a swift response to any arising situations. Tourists were advised to avoid traveling to these areas during the forecast period.

The public was also advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities. NDMA has advised the public to stay informed and download ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app for timely alerts and closely monitor weather reports.

Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2024