ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an advisory as monsoon rains are expected to persist across much of the country until July 25, warning of an increased risk of flooding, landslides, and glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) in northern areas.
Moisture from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, along with low-pressure systems forming in nearby areas, is likely to result in moderate to heavy rainfall across the country in the coming days.
According to the NDMA, there is a significant danger of landslides and GLOFs in mountainous areas, particularly in Gilgit Baltistan and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The authority also warned of a possible rise in water levels in the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, and Kabul rivers.
On the Chenab River, low to moderate flooding is expected at Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad, while increased water flow is anticipated in the upper catchment of Mangla on the Jhelum River and at Nowshera on the Kabul River. Water levels are also likely to rise at Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages.
In KP, there is a risk of flooding in the Swat and Panjkora rivers and their adjoining streams. In GB, a flood-like situation may emerge in the Hunza and Shigar rivers, while flash floods are also expected in the streams of Khunjerab, Shimshal, and Saltoro.
Similarly, in Balochistan, streams in Musakhel, Sherani, Zhob, and Sibi districts are at risk of flooding due to anticipated heavy rainfall.
The NDMA further warned that landslides remain a key concern in northern areas due to persistent rain. The Karakoram Highway and Babusar Top are currently closed to traffic following multiple landslides.
Tourists have been strongly advised to avoid travelling to mountainous regions until 25 July. The public has also been urged to refrain from crossing streams, bridges, and waterlogged roads to ensure safety.
As many as 13 people were killed as rains, thunderstorms and flash floods battered parts of the country, especially Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, on Tuesday, with 234 lives already lost to monsoon rains across Pakistan.
Tourists have been strongly advised to avoid travel to GB until conditions return to normal. Naran and Kaghan are currently completely closed, while the Silk Route remains open only for small vehicles.