ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) have issued urgent alerts ahead of expected heavy monsoon rains from Sunday (July 13) to July 17.
Officials warn of possible landslides, urban flooding, and serious disruption across several regions of the country.
According to NDMA, landslides are likely in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ghanche, and Shigar. Alert has also been issued for Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli, and Bagh in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Key roads such as Karakoram Highway, Gilgit Road, Nagar Road, and Jaglot-Skardu Road, especially near Rundu, are at risk. Roads in Upper Kohistan, Astore, and Diamer may also be affected.
Local administrations have been told to stay alert and prepare for evacuations, closures, and rescue operations.
Residents near rivers, canals, and mountain drains have been advised to stay alert, especially at night.
NDMA has strongly warned people against crossing flooded bridges, roads, or riverbanks.
PDMA PUNJAB WARNS OF URBAN FLOODING
PDMA Punjab has warned of urban flooding in the third monsoon spell, which will continue till July 17.
Heavy rain with gusty winds is expected in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, and Faisalabad.
Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad face serious urban flood risk.
PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia said that all commissioners and DCs have been directed to stay alert and finalize flood response plans.
An alert for moderate flood at Chashma on the Indus has also been issued as water levels continue to rise.
Authorities in Sargodha, DG Khan, and Bahawalpur divisions, along with DCs of Mianwali, Bhakkar, Layyah, Muzaffargarh, DG Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, have been put on high alert.
Read more: Rain plays havoc in Rahim Yar Khan