Pakistan is grappling with worsening flood conditions as the ninth spell of monsoon rains continues, causing heavy downpours across multiple cities and dangerously rising floodwaters in major rivers. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued warnings of severe flooding in the coming days, particularly at Panjnad and downstream Indus River barrages.
Over the past 24 hours, significant rainfall has been recorded in northern and central Punjab cities, including Narowal, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Lahore, aggravating the flood threat.
The NDMA has forecasted that the current monsoon spell will continue for the next 24 to 48 hours, particularly affecting upper areas of the country with further rainfall expected.
Southern Pakistan is also at risk. Heavy rainfall is predicted to impact southern Punjab and Sindh from September 6, with districts such as Badin, Sujawal, Tharparkar, Dadu, and Qambar Shahdadkot expected to experience significant downpours. Tharparkar, Umarkot, and Mirpurkhas are also likely to receive rainfall, raising concerns about flash floods and waterlogging.
Floodwaters from the Ravi, Chenab, and Sutlej rivers are expected to converge at Head Panjnad between September 4 and 5, posing a high risk of severe flooding. The NDMA confirmed that water released by India has already entered Pakistan, increasing flood levels at multiple locations.
The combined floodwaters from Panjnad will join the Indus River, with authorities warning of potentially extremely high flooding at Guddu Barrage between September 6 and 7.
Current flood levels at barrages are as follows: Guddu Barrage at 369,600 cusecs (medium-level flood), Sukkur Barrage at 300,600 cusecs (low-level flood), and Kotri Barrage at 266,800 cusecs (low-level flood). District administrations and disaster management authorities have been directed to remain on high alert and prepare for emergency response.
In Sindh, hot and humid conditions will persist over the next three days, with rain expected in some districts. Maximum temperatures are forecasted to range between 33°C and 35°C, with potential flood risks continuing amid the monsoon season. Citizens are urged to stay vigilant and follow official safety instructions.
