The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an extreme weather alert for several parts of Pakistan from July 19 to July 23. The advisory warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across multiple regions.
According to the forecast, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Punjab are expected to experience intense weather conditions. Therefore, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious throughout the wet spell.
The NDMA said monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea are strengthening over upper and central Pakistan. At the same time, a western disturbance is expected to approach the northern regions. As a result, rainfall is likely to become more intense in the coming days.
Heavy rainfall expected across northern regions
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in several districts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. These include Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Poonch, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber, and Mirpur.
Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is also likely to receive widespread rainfall. The affected areas include Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Mardan, Nowshera, and several tribal districts.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, moderate to heavy rain is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ghizer, Ghanche, and Shigar. Consequently, weather conditions may become hazardous in mountainous areas.
Urban flooding threat for major cities
The NDMA has warned that heavy rainfall could trigger urban flooding in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Peshawar.
In addition, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Multan, and Faisalabad may also experience water accumulation and drainage problems between July 20 and July 23.
Low-lying neighbourhoods, underpasses, and roads with poor drainage remain especially vulnerable. Therefore, residents should avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.
Rivers and streams may experience rising water levels
The approaching weather system may also increase water flows in the Chenab, Jhelum, and Kabul rivers.
Communities living near riverbanks, seasonal streams, and waterways have been advised to stay alert. Furthermore, flash flooding may occur in local streams and nullahs across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, northeastern Punjab, and parts of Balochistan.
People living in flood-prone areas should closely monitor weather updates. They should also follow instructions issued by local authorities.
Landslide risk increases in mountainous areas
Persistent rainfall may trigger landslides in vulnerable hilly regions. Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Murree, and Galiyat face the highest risk.
Landslides, falling rocks, and debris may block important roads and highways. As a result, travel disruptions are possible between July 20 and July 25.
Motorists planning to travel through mountainous areas should remain cautious. Checking road conditions before departure can help avoid unnecessary delays and risks.
NDMA advises tourists to remain cautious
The NDMA has advised tourists to check weather forecasts and traffic conditions before visiting mountainous or recreational areas.
Visitors should avoid trekking, hiking, and camping during periods of heavy rainfall. Similarly, they should stay away from rivers, nullahs, flooded roads, and fast-flowing streams.
The authority also advised people not to cross submerged roads or bridges. Instead, travellers should maintain a safe distance from waterways and avoid entering flood-affected areas.
Moreover, tourists should choose accommodation located on higher ground whenever possible. They should also follow instructions issued by local administrations and rescue agencies throughout the forecast period.
The latest weather advisory highlights the increased risk of flooding, landslides, and travel disruptions across several regions of Pakistan. As heavy rain continues, following official safety instructions and avoiding unnecessary travel can help reduce the risk to life and property.
