A fresh spell of monsoon has entered Pakistan - bringing with it the risk of flooding in various parts of the country - the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and provincial disaster management bodies have warned.
According to the NDMA, widespread thundershowers are expected from July 13 to 17 across several regions, including Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Kashmir, and eastern Balochistan.
The downpour, under the influence of an active monsoon system, may lead to both riverine and flash flooding in vulnerable areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted significant rainfall over the coming days, prompting the NDMA to issue a heavy rain and flood alert for most urban and mountainous areas.
In a statement, the NDMA said that rising water levels are anticipated in the Kabul, Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, while moderate flooding could occur at Tarbela, Kala Bagh, Chashma, and Taunsa. The authority has also warned of potential light flooding in Guddu Barrage, as well as in the upstream regions of Marala and Khanki on the Chenab and in Nowshera along the Kabul River.
Additional alerts have been issued for Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur, where mountain rain drains are likely to witness high water flow. Localised flash floods are also expected in Swat, Panjkora, and nearby streams, while southern and western Balochistan—particularly Khuzdar, Lasbela, Awaran, and Kalat—may experience sudden flooding.
In central Balochistan, water levels are expected to rise in rivers and streams flowing through Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, Sibi, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, and Musakhel districts.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has echoed the NDMA’s concerns and called on local administrations to remain on high alert. Emergency response teams have been advised to be prepared for rescue and relief operations in case of any untoward situation.
As of now, the Tarbela Dam has reached 74 percent of its capacity, while Mangla Dam stands at 44 percent. The NDMA has advised residents living near riverbanks, streams, and low-lying areas to exercise caution, especially during night hours.
Citizens have been urged not to attempt to cross bridges, streams, or inundated roads during periods of high water flow. The NDMA has also called for close coordination between relevant departments, including district administrations, irrigation authorities, and law enforcement agencies.
Officials said real-time monitoring is underway and the public will be kept informed through timely alerts and advisories.
