The National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for heavy rains, possible floods and landslides across Pakistan. The water level in the Indus, Chenab, Jhelum and Kabul rivers is likely to rise, posing a severe flood risk.

Lowlying areas near the Indus River in Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma and Taunsa are feared to be inundated. Similar flooding is expected in Marala and Khanki on the Chenab River and Mangla on the Jhelum River. Due to the expected rains, there is a risk of flooding in the tributaries of Swat and Panjkora rivers as well.

There is a risk of flash floods due to torrential rains in the hilly streams of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur. Similarly, the water level is likely to rise in the local streams of various districts of Balochistan including Jhal Magsi, Kachhi, Sibi, Qila Saifullah, Zhob and Musa Khel.

The flow of water is also likely to increase in the Hunza and Shigar rivers of GilgitBaltistan. There is a risk of flash floods in Hispar, Khanjerab, Shimshal, Braldu, Hushe and Saltoro rivers. There is a risk of landslides in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astor, Diamer, Ghanche and Shigar. Heavy rains may also cause landslides in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Haveli and Bagh.

NDMA and relevant agencies are monitoring the situation and taking timely action. Citizens are advised to avoid crossing streams, bridges and submerged roads. Residents of lowlying areas should move valuables and livestock to higher ground. People in atrisk locations should keep emergency kits containing 3 to 5 days’ worth of essentials, food, clean drinking water and medicines.

Local governments have been instructed to keep necessary equipment and water pumps ready for drainage. People in floodaffected areas should stay updated through television broadcasts, mobile alerts and government announcements. NDMA has directed all concerned departments to be prepared for any emergency. The public is encouraged to use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application for information on weather conditions and potential hazards.