The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert over the possibility of flooding in several parts of Pakistan, warning that rainfall over the next 48 hours could increase river flows and trigger flooding in vulnerable areas.
According to the alert, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, Punjab and the Potohar region are among the areas facing a potential flood threat.
The NDMA said rainfall in the upper areas could lead to a rise in river flows, increasing the risk of flooding in rivers, streams and canals.
Flood threat in Gilgit-Baltistan
Several districts of Gilgit-Baltistan have been identified as vulnerable, including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Skardu, Astore and Shigar.
Authorities have been advised to remain vigilant and ensure necessary preparations are in place to respond to any deterioration in the situation.
KP districts placed on alert
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the alert covers Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Nowshera.
The expected rainfall could increase water flows and create flooding risks in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
AJK also faces flood risk
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, potential flooding has been forecast in Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur and Kotli.
Local administrations have been directed to closely monitor the situation and remain prepared for emergencies.
Flooding feared in Potohar region
The NDMA has also warned of possible flooding in parts of the Potohar region, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal and Jhelum.
The alert includes the possibility of flooding in rivers and canals following increased water flows caused by rainfall in upper areas.
Punjab districts also at risk
Several districts of Punjab have also been identified as vulnerable, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Narowal and Kasur.
The warning also covers Okara, Wazirabad, Hafizabad and Sargodha, where authorities have been advised to remain alert to possible flooding.
The NDMA has directed local administrations to ensure that necessary resources and arrangements for safe evacuation are in place.
Authorities have also been urged to closely monitor vulnerable areas and take timely measures to protect communities in case of flooding.
