The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has anticipated a significant rainfall across various regions of Pakistan until July 9, 2024.

The affected areas include northeastern parts of Punjab, particularly the eastern rivers’ catchment areas, Pothohar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), southern Sindh, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), says an official statement issued here on Thursday.

The anticipated moderate to heavy rainfall may cause urban flooding and is likely to induce rapid rises in water levels in nullahs, triggering flash flooding across the northern regions of Punjab (Sialkot), KP, and AJK.

Additionally, this precipitation is expected to result in high discharge levels within the eastern rivers. Sutlej River expected to experience a low flood stage with approximately 50,000 cusecs of water, while Kabul River predicted to reach a medium flood level with approximately 95,000 cusecs.

These conditions are expected until July 9. Extreme rainfall may also lead to additional releases from Indian reservoirs, including Salal, Bhakra, and Pong Dam, which could directly impact the Chenab and Sutlej rivers. Moreover, NEOC has predicted moderate to heavy rainfall in Gilgit-Baltistan until July 8, 2024, which may trigger flash flooding in local nullahs.

Areas such as Chigar and Khaplu are at risk of flash flooding during heavy rains. Slightly heavy rainfall is expected in Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, northern parts of Balochistan, and AJK until July 8, 2024.

The persistent heavy to moderate rains may cause localized landslides at Karakoram Highway along Hunza and some of areas of District Nagar, Gilgit, Diamir, Kohistan, Battagram, Mansehra, and Abbottabad, potentially disrupting traffic flows and cutting off far-flung areas from main roads.

The NDMA urged all relevant authorities and the public to take necessary precautions to mitigate the potential impacts of flooding and landslides.

Emergency response teams have been alerted, and resources are being mobilized to ensure a swift response to any arising situations. Tourists have been advised to avoid traveling to these areas during the forecasted period.

The public has been advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities. NDMA advised the public to stay informed and download ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app for timely alerts and closely monitor weather reports.