High flood alert in 48 hours as India warns of dam water release

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh flood alert after India warned of releasing water from the Madhopur Dam amid heavy rainfall in northern states.

Authorities fear rising river flows could trigger moderate to high flood levels in several rivers over the next 48 hours. India issued the warning as it expects heavy rains in its states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and occupied Kashmir. 

Rising flood threat in Ravi, Chenab, Sutlej

According to NDMA spokesperson, a high flood situation is expected in the Ravi River at Jassar within the next two days. Water level in the Jammu Tawi and Manor Tawi rivers in the upper reaches of Chenab are also rising. 

The Chenab River at Marala may reach medium to high flood levels, while the Sutlej River at Ganda Singhwala could touch severe flood limits. Authorities warned that the possibility of medium to high flow from smaller drains, including Eik, Deg, Ben, Basantar, and Palkho, in the Pir Panjal Range may worsen the situation. 

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The spokesperson confirmed that the Thein Dam in India has been filled to 86% of its capacity with a height of 1717 feet due to heavy rains, and any water release combined with monsoon downpours could cause flooding in vulnerable districts.

Low-lying Punjab districts at risk

The NDMA reported that the water flow in the Ravi River at Kot Nainan has already reached 64,000 cusecs, with moderate flooding expected at Jasr in the next 24 hours.

Low-lying areas of Sialkot, Narowal, Kasur, and adjoining districts are likely to be affected. Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from rivers and drains, and take precautionary measures.

Heavy rains intensify monsoon losses

The NDMA also shared updated monsoon statistics, revealing that 799 people have lost their lives since June 26, while 1,080 others have been injured.

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded the highest death toll with 489 casualties.

• Punjab reported 165 deaths, Sindh 55, and Balochistan 24.

• In the northern regions, 45 deaths occurred in Gilgit-Baltistan, 23 in Azad Kashmir, and 8 in Islamabad.

Additionally, more than 7,100 houses have been damaged and over 5,500 livestock lost.

Weather forecast: More rains ahead

The Meteorological Department has forecast hot and humid weather in most parts of the country but warned of more rain in:

• Kashmir and northeast Punjab – with heavy to torrential downpours expected.

• Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and south Punjab – scattered showers.

• Balochistan – rain likely in northeast and southern parts.

NDMA’s advisory

The NDMA has urged provincial and district administrations to remain on high alert, prepare evacuation plans for at-risk communities, and ensure swift emergency response in case of floods.