The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a nationwide flood alert, warning that forecast rainfall through September 17 could trigger flash floods, urban flooding and rising water levels in rivers and streams across several regions of Pakistan.
Mountainous North and KP at Highest Risk
According to the NDMA, rainfall over the upper parts of the country could cause water levels to swell in rivers, streams and seasonal channels, creating dangerous conditions in vulnerable areas.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the authority identified Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Ishkoman, Gupis-Yasin, Nagar, Hunza, Shimshal, Skardu and Shigar as being at risk of flash flooding.
Several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were also flagged as vulnerable, including Upper Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Malakand, Kurram, Kohistan, Mohmand and Orakzai.
Balochistan and Punjab Districts Also on Alert
In Balochistan, the NDMA warned that Zhob, Sherani and Musakhel could experience flooding as a result of the expected rains.
The authority also named Islamabad and several Punjab districts as potentially vulnerable to urban flooding:
- Rawalpindi
- Gujranwala
- Sargodha
- Jhang
- Toba Tek Singh
- Sheikhupura
Authorities Placed on Advance Alert
The NDMA said relevant authorities have been placed on advance alert and instructed to take precautionary measures and ensure preparedness for any emergency arising from heavy rainfall or flooding.
The National Emergencies Operation Centre is monitoring weather-related hazards and assessing possible risks to provide timely information to authorities and the public.
Public Advisory: Avoid Flooded Roads and Storm Drains
The disaster management authority urged people to exercise particular caution during intense rainfall and to avoid attempting to cross storm drains, flooded roads, bridges and low-lying passages.
Residents of vulnerable areas were advised to rely on official weather forecasts and emergency warnings rather than unverified information. The NDMA recommended using its Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application for official updates on weather conditions, potential hazards and safety precautions.
People requiring assistance during a flood-related emergency can contact the 911 emergency helpline.
Why the Warning Matters
Flash flooding can develop rapidly after intense rainfall, particularly in mountainous areas and near streams and seasonal waterways. Urban flooding can occur when heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, disrupting traffic and inundating low-lying neighbourhoods.
Residents in areas covered by the alert have been urged to remain cautious through September 17 and to follow instructions issued by local administrations and emergency services.
