NDMA Issues Extreme Weather Alert Till 23 July

The National Disaster Management Authority has issued an extreme weather alert for several parts of Pakistan from July 19 to 23.

The alert warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and parts of Punjab.

NDMA said monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea are strengthening over upper and central Pakistan. A western disturbance is also expected to approach the northern regions, increasing the intensity of the wet spell.

Heavy Rain Expected Across Northern Pakistan

Heavy to very heavy rain may hit several areas of AJK, including Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Poonch, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may also receive intense rainfall. The affected areas include Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, Dir, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Mardan, Nowshera and several tribal districts.

Meanwhile, moderate to heavy rain is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ghizer, Ghanche and Shigar.

Lahore, Islamabad and Peshawar Face Urban Flooding Risk

NDMA warned that heavy rain may cause urban flooding in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Peshawar.

Gujranwala, Sialkot, Multan and Faisalabad may also face water accumulation and drainage problems between July 20 and 23.

Low-lying neighbourhoods, underpasses and roads with weak drainage systems could become particularly vulnerable during intense rainfall.

Flooding Risk in Chenab, Jhelum and Kabul Rivers

The weather system may also increase water flows in the Chenab, Jhelum and Kabul rivers.

Communities living close to riverbanks, streams and seasonal waterways have been urged to remain alert.

Flash flooding may also affect local streams and nullahs in Kashmir, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, northeastern Punjab and parts of Balochistan.

Landslides May Block Roads in Hilly Areas

Persistent rain may trigger landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas.

Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Murree and Galiyat face the greatest risk.

Landslides, falling rocks and debris may block roads and disrupt travel in these regions between July 20 and 25.

Tourists Urged to Take Precautions

NDMA has advised tourists to check weather and traffic conditions before travelling to mountainous or recreational areas.

Visitors should avoid trekking, hiking and camping during heavy rain. They should also stay away from rivers, nullahs and flooded roads.

The authority advised people to maintain a safe distance from waterways and avoid crossing submerged bridges or roads.

Tourists should choose accommodation on higher ground and follow instructions issued by local administrations and rescue agencies.