NDMA Issues Nationwide Alert for Heavy Rain and Flood Risk

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning about heavy rainfall expected to hit various parts of Pakistan in the next 24 hours. The warning includes the possibility of flooding in low-lying areas, as well as overflowing rivers and streams.

Twin Cities Face Serious Threat

According to NDMA officials, Rawalpindi and Islamabad are likely to experience intermittent heavy showers over the next 24 to 48 hours. These rains could elevate water levels in Nullah Lai, creating a high risk of flooding in nearby communities.

“Residents living near Nullah Lai and in other vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and ready to evacuate if authorities sound the warning sirens,” said an NDMA spokesperson. Citizens have also been urged to follow local authorities’ instructions and cooperate during emergencies.

Cities on High Alert

Other cities likely to be affected include:
Lahore, Chakwal, Attock, Jhelum, Khushab, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Kasur, Sheikhupura, and Hafizabad.
Heavy rain in these areas could result in urban flooding and damage to infrastructure and routine life.

Emergency teams and disaster management units are on high alert across the affected regions.

Reservoirs Filling Up Amid Monsoon Rains

Due to ongoing monsoon activity, Pakistan’s major dams are filling rapidly, as per the Indus River System Authority (IRSA).

• Tarbela Dam is rising steadily and authorities have opened its spillways.
• Mangla Dam has reached 1,186 feet, nearing its maximum capacity of 1,242 feet.

• Chashma Barrage is at 648 feet, with only one foot of space left.

“While the overall situation in dams remains under control, the spokesperson warned that urban flooding is occurring due to continuous rainfall.”

Local Rainfall Damage Reported

• Rawalpindi has recorded 230 mm of rain in 15 hours, pushing Nullah Lai’s water level to 18 feet, near its 20-foot danger mark.
• In Chakwal, a cloudburst led to 423 mm of rain in 10 hours, creating flood-like conditions.
• Mandi Bahauddin saw 210 mm of rain, turning roads into streams of flowing water.

PDMA Also Issues Fresh Warning

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has released another rain alert for Punjab, warning of more rainfall today and a continued risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.