NDMA predicts urban, flash flooding due to torrential rains

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has forecast urban flooding and flash flooding due to ongoing torrential rains in different parts of the country during the current week. According to the National Disaster Management Authority, Monsoon currents from Arabian Sea and Bay of Bangal are likely to penetrate in upper part and then in central and southern parts of the country from tomorrow. Under influence of this system, rain and thundershower is expected most parts of the country. Torrential rains may generate flash flooding in local nullahs, streams in Murree, Galiyat, Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Dir, Shangla, Bunner, Bannu, Kurram, Waziristan, Dera Ismail Khan, Orakzai, Khyber, Mohmand, Nowshera, Swabi, Islamabad and Rawalpindi and Northeast Punjab. Hill torrents may be triggered in DG Khan, Rajanpur, Sulaiman and Kirthar Ranges. Heavy downpour may cause urban flooding in low lying areas of Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Nowshera and Peshawar from tomorrow to Monday. Rain may lead to a surge in water levels within streams and nullahs, possibility of landslides in Upper KP Murree, Galiyat, Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, thereby posing a threat to life and property in vulnerable areas. The NDMA has advised PDMAs and other relevant line departments to remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any emergent situations. Local departments are urged to sensitize residents living along riverbanks and associated nullahs about the expected increase in water flows, and to facilitate timely evacuation of at-risk populations from low-lying and flood-prone areas as per evacuation plans. Additionally, citizens are also advised to take extreme precautionary measures, such as staying away from electric poles and weak infrastructure, and refraining from driving or walking in waterways. Tourists and travelers are also advised to remain cautious during this period, checking weather and road conditions before traveling. The NDMA has also launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application, available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store, to provide timely alerts, advisories, and guidelines to the public. Source: Radio Pakistan