On Sunday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a warning indicating that Balochistan and southern Punjab are at risk of high to very high levels of flash flooding due to current hydrometeorological conditions.
The alert comes in the wake of recent floods in Balochistan, which have resulted in 12 deaths and 32 injuries. Heavy monsoon rains have severely impacted the region, damaging 263 houses—91 of which were completely destroyed—and causing significant disruptions to major roads.
The NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center has forecasted severe flash flooding in hill torrents and local nullahs across the Zhob, Kalat, Nasirabad, and Sibbi divisions, as well as in DG Khan and Rajanpur. Villages and towns situated near these nullahs, particularly along floodplains, are likely to be affected by increased water flows. Additionally, Nowshera is expected to experience medium to high flood levels due to substantial rainfall in the Kabul River catchment areas and its tributaries. The anticipated glacial lake outburst flooding (GLOF) in Chitral will further raise water levels in the Panjkora and Kabul rivers.
The NDMA has advised all relevant departments to take preventive measures against potential flooding and severe weather. Residents in vulnerable areas are urged to avoid floodwaters, evacuate to safer locations, and use alternative routes to circumvent flood-prone areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has reported that the current monsoon system will persist in Balochistan until August 6, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to Khuzdar, Lasbela, Awaran, Panjgur, Barkhan, Musa Khail, Harnai, Naseerabad, Jhal Magsi, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Quetta, Ziarat, Killa Abdullah, Killa Saifullah, and Kalat. The PMD warns that these torrential rains may lead to landslides and further flooding.
In response, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has instructed relevant departments to stay vigilant and has advised against unnecessary travel and approaching rivers. The provincial irrigation department is on high alert, with officials and personnel prohibited from leaving their posts without permission. Secretary Abdul Majid has directed all leave-taking officers and workers to return to their duties immediately.
