NDMA Issues Alert Over Pre-Monsoon Rains Across Pakistan

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has urged the public to remain alert as intermittent pre monsoon rains are expected across Pakistan from June 28 to July 3, warning of an increased risk of flooding and landslides in northern regions.

According to the NDMA, the combination of intense heat and expected rainfall is likely to accelerate glacier melting, causing water levels to rise in rivers and streams across Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

The authority warned that vulnerable mountainous areas face an elevated risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides during the forecast period.

Residents, tourists, and travelers have been advised to exercise extreme caution in high risk districts, including Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper and Lower Chitral, and Swat. The NDMA also urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel near rivers, streams, glacial lakes, and riverbanks, and to immediately report any hazardous conditions to local authorities.

The authority said Provincial Disaster Management Authorities have been placed on high alert and directed to ensure emergency preparedness and rapid response capabilities throughout the forecast period.