The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a red alert for Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, warning of heavy rains, urban flooding, and possible landslides over the next 12 to 24 hours.

Authorities have begun large-scale evacuation and relief operations in flood-prone areas.

Heavy rains expected in Punjab districts

According to an NDMA spokesperson, heavy downpours are expected in Jhelum, Chakwal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad, Nankana Sahib, Chunian, and Pakpattan. Rainfall is also likely in Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, and Kasur, raising fears of flooding in rivers, canals, and low-lying areas.

Also Read: Flood alert in Punjab, AJK as Indian dam water threatens rivers

The NDMA warned that rapid water flows could damage standing crops, inundate villages, and disrupt road traffic.

Kashmir on alert for landslides

In Neelum Valley, Bagh, Kotli, Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, and Haveli, continuous rainfall could trigger landslides and flash floods in hilly streams. Authorities said that the flow of traffic on key connecting roads may be severely affected due to waterlogging and mudslides.

Relief and evacuation efforts underway

Following earlier warnings of rising water levels in the Sutlej River, authorities have already started mass evacuations in vulnerable areas. Relief operations are being carried out by PDMA Punjab, Rescue 1122, and Pakistan Army Engineers, who are providing food, tents, medical supplies, and transportation support.

Also Read: Evacuation begins as Punjab rivers face high flood risk in 48 hours

Officials confirmed that residents living near riverbanks and low-lying areas are being moved to safer zones.

Public safety advisory

The NDMA has urged citizens to:

Stay away from rivers, drains, and flood-prone areas.
Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains.
Follow alerts issued on TV, radio, mobile notifications, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert App.

Authorities emphasized that public cooperation is crucial to minimize casualties and ensure timely rescue operations.