MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has issued a high alert across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) following continuous rainfall and the rising threat of floods in several low-lying areas. Heavy rains have caused water levels to rise sharply in rivers, mountain streams, and drainage channels, putting many communities at risk.
According to the SDMA, rain has been falling intermittently in all districts of AJK, and the situation is being closely monitored. Although no casualties or major damage have been reported so far, the SDMA has warned that the situation could worsen quickly if the rain continues.
There is growing concern about landslides in hilly areas and flooding in rivers like the Neelum and Jhelum. Water levels in both rivers have been rising steadily, and the Emergency Operations Center has cautioned that the flow of water could become dangerously high in the coming hours.
The SDMA has particularly warned about the possibility of severe flooding in the catchment areas of the Jhelum River, where water flow may increase from 350,000 to 450,000 cusecs. In other areas, such as Taobat and Kotli, high water flows have already been recorded. Alerts have been sent to residents living near these rivers.
All district administrations have been placed on high alert, and emergency response teams—including Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, Health Departments, and Police—have been fully activated. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to move to safer locations.
The SDMA has also issued safety guidelines for the public, urging people to monitor official updates, limit unnecessary travel, store essential supplies, and avoid going near rivers and streams. Tourists have also been advised to stay updated on weather alerts and avoid high-risk zones.
In its official statement, the SDMA requested citizens to rely only on government sources for information and to contact local authorities in case of any emergency. “Public cooperation is essential to prevent loss of life and property,” the statement said.
