ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a countrywide alert, warning of intense monsoon rains from June 30 to July 5. The authority has urged the public to stay cautious as the expected heavy downpours may trigger urban flooding, flash floods, and landslides in several areas.
The NDMA has identified the northern regions, including Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Islamabad, Potohar, Murree, Galiyat, Mansehra, Haripur, and Abbottabad, as the areas most likely to be affected. These regions are at a high risk of landslides and overflowing streams.
Several cities in Punjab are also on high alert. These include Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, and others, where urban flooding is expected in low-lying areas. The NDMA has highlighted the need for extra caution in regions with poor drainage systems.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, cities such as Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swat, and D.I. Khan may experience flash floods and emergency situations due to overflowing streams and rivers.
Southern Sindh, especially coastal cities like Hyderabad, Badin, and Thatta, is also at risk. The NDMA noted that while the monsoon system entering Karachi has weakened, local rain may still pose problems in areas with weak infrastructure.
The NDMA has also warned that heavy rain and strong winds could damage old buildings, mud walls, electric poles, and billboards. It further stated that poor visibility and slippery roads may cause traffic accidents, urging drivers to be extra careful.
The authority has urged the public to avoid crossing streams and rivers, stay away from weak infrastructure, and for tourists to consider weather conditions before travelling. People are advised to follow instructions from local authorities and the Meteorological Department to stay safe during this period.
To that end, authorities in Kashmir have imposed Section 144 in Mangla Dam, banning the operation of all types of passenger boats, in light of the heavy monsoon rains. Additionally, Section 144 has also been imposed in Bagh over river activities during the Monsoon season.
