NDMA issues flood alert for northern areas; heavy rains expected in next 72 hours
Islamabad, The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a flood alert through its National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), warning of possible flash floods and landslides in northern regions of the country over the next two to three days.
According to the NEOC, heavy rains accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms are forecast for Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa within the next 72 hours. The downpours are likely to increase water flow in rivers, streams, and seasonal nullahs, raising the risk of flash flooding and landslides in mountainous areas.
Sensitive districts identified include Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Astore, Skardu, Shigar, and adjoining valleys in Gilgit-Baltistan; Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur, and Kotli in Azad Kashmir; and Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Haripur in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Urban flooding is also feared in Nowshera, Peshawar, Swabi, and Mardan, where low-lying areas and connecting roads may be submerged.
The NEOC further cautioned that water levels in the Indus, Kabul, Swat, Panjkora, Kurram, Tochi, Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi rivers are expected to rise, with strong flows anticipated at multiple points along these rivers and their tributaries. In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, heavy rainfall could trigger severe water flow in Nullah Lai, posing risks to low-lying neighborhoods.
NDMA has directed all relevant institutions to remain on high alert, ensure pre-positioning of resources in sensitive areas, and keep evacuation plans ready. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from flood-prone streams and nullahs, and strictly follow traffic advisories. The authority warned against crossing flooded roads, bridges, or fast-flowing water, noting that even shallow currents can prove deadly.
Tourists and residents in vulnerable valleys have been urged to exercise caution, particularly during monsoon when landslides, debris flows, and sudden floods are more frequent. NDMA stressed that precautionary measures and adherence to official instructions are vital for public safety.