Pakistan Braces for Heavy Monsoon Rains, Flooding Risks (July 11-17)

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast widespread monsoon rains, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across the country from July 11 to 17. A fresh westerly wave and increased moisture inflow are expected to intensify rainfall, particularly from July 13 onwardsKashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Punjab, and parts of Sindh and Balochistan are likely to experience heavy to very heavy downpours, raising concerns over flash floods, urban flooding, and landslides.

Regional Forecast & High-Risk Areas

  • Kashmir & GB: Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Gilgit, Skardu, and Diamer may face very heavy rainfall, increasing landslide risks.

  • KP: Swat, Dir, Chitral, Peshawar, and tribal districts could see flash flooding in local streams.

  • Punjab/Islamabad: Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Sialkot may experience urban flooding, while Murree & Galliyat face landslide threats.

  • Balochistan & Sindh: Quetta, Zhob, and Karachi will receive moderate to heavy showers, with flash flood risks in hill torrents.

NDMA’s Flood Alert & Emergency Measures
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of rising water levels in major rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Kabul), with Tarbela and Mangla dams at 74% and 44% capacity, respectively. Low-lying areas in Punjab and KP are particularly vulnerable. The NDMA has advised:
✔ Residents near rivers/nullahs to stay alert, especially at night.
✔ Preparing emergency kits (food, water, medicine) for 3-5 days.
✔ Avoiding flooded roads and weak bridges.
✔ Farmers and tourists to postpone non-essential travel to high-risk zones.

Authorities on High Alert
District administrations have been directed to deploy dewatering pumps and monitor flood-prone areas. The PMD and NDMA are issuing real-time updates via TV, radio, SMS, and the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app. Citizens are urged to follow official advisories and avoid misinformation. With climate change increasing extreme weather, preparedness is critical to minimizing risks. Stay safe!