NDMA forecasts severe rain, potential flooding in K-P, G-B, AJK over next 72 hours

The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Thursday warned of a possible flood situation over the next 72 hours as heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds are forecast across Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

Authorities have been directed to remain on high alert as intense rains in mountainous areas could cause sudden rises in rivers, streams and seasonal nullahs, along with flash floods, landslides and debris flows.

Several areas have been identified as vulnerable, including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Astore, Skardu and Shigar in Gilgit-Baltistan, while Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur and Kotli in AJK are also at risk.

In K-P, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Haripur could face flash flooding. Urban flooding is also possible in Nowshera, Peshawar, Swabi and Mardan, particularly in low-lying areas and along connecting roads.

The NDMA forecast increased water flows in the Indus, Kabul, Swat, Panjkora, Kurram, Tochi, Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi rivers, while rainfall in Rawalpindi and Islamabad could significantly increase the flow of Nullah Lai.

Local administrations have been instructed to pre-position emergency resources, maintain evacuation arrangements and take timely preventive measures, particularly in mountainous and flood-prone areas.

The NDMA advised residents, tourists and travellers to avoid riverbanks, streams, nullahs and other vulnerable locations and refrain from unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.

The public was warned against attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges or fast-moving water, even on foot.

People were urged to check weather and road conditions before travelling, follow official safety instructions and monitor updates through official channels and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app. In case of a flood emergency, citizens can dial 911 for assistance.