NDMA warns of floods, landslides as monsoon system grips Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), on Monday issued impact-based weather alerts for several regions across Pakistan, as a strong southwest monsoon system is forecast to remain active from July 28 to 31, 2025.

Earlier, the NDMA released report on the death and destruction caused by the ongoing monsoon rains across Pakistan. The report said that 271 people have been confirmed dead in various rain-related incidents since June 26

The alert has predicted widespread rainfall in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), potentially triggering high flooding, landslides, and urban waterlogging in vulnerable areas.

In Punjab, heavy rainfall is expected in key districts including Sargodha, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Lahore, and Narowal.

Moderate showers are likely in southern districts such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan, with the possibility of medium-flow torrents reactivating in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur.

Water levels may also rise in nullahs emerging from the Pir Panjal range in northeastern Punjab, heightening the risk of flash floods. Low-lying urban areas are particularly prone to waterlogging. Residents have been urged to remain alert and take precautionary measures to safeguard life and property.

In KP, moderate rainfall and localized thunderstorms are forecast in Kohistan, Swat, Malakand, Dir, and Buner.

Rising water levels are anticipated in tributaries such as the Swat, Panjkora, Bara, and Kalpani rivers, which could lead to elevated flows in the River Kabul near Nowshera.

The River Chitral and its tributaries near Boni and Reshun may also swell due to the combined impact of glacial melt and monsoon rains.

Urban flooding is a major concern for Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, and Abbottabad.

Similar warnings have been issued for GB and AJK, where heavy downpours could trigger floods and landslides.

Rainfall is expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Shigar, and adjacent districts, while AJK’s Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh face risks of riverine flooding and landslides. Urban centres in these regions may also experience flash floods and waterlogging.

The NDMA has directed all federal and provincial departments, Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), and local administrations to remain on high alert.

Citizens are advised to monitor official updates, identify safe evacuation routes, and use the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application for real-time information.

Tourists and travelers are strongly discouraged from visiting high-altitude or flood-prone areas during this period.