Pakistan is bracing for another round of heavy monsoon rains as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab sound the alarm for possible flooding, landslides, and widespread disruption from July 13 to 17.
In its latest advisory, the NDMA warns that heavy monsoon rains could trigger landslides in the northern and mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Critical areas like Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Astore, along with Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Rawalakot, are expected to be the hardest hit. Authorities have also flagged key routes like the Karakoram Highway and Jaglot-Skardu Road for potential blockages due to landslides, especially near the Rundu area.
The NDMA has instructed local administrations to stay on high alert for road closures, evacuations, and relief efforts, ensuring that emergency response teams are ready to act swiftly.
Alongside the risk of landslides, the NDMA has issued flood alerts for major rivers and dams. Moderate flooding is predicted at Kala Bagh and Chashma barrages on the Indus River. Water levels are steadily rising in the Kabul, Sindh, Chenab, and Jhelum rivers, with light flooding anticipated at Tarbela, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages.
Tarbela Dam is already at 74% capacity, while Mangla Dam sits at 44%, both continuing to rise as the heavy monsoon rains persist. Smaller rivers like Swat and Panjkora and drains in Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, and several Balochistan districts—including Jhal Magsi and Musakhel—are also under threat of flash floods.
In Punjab, the PDMA has issued a separate alert for the third spell of monsoon rains, warning of urban flooding in key districts such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Gujranwala. Strong winds and heavy downpours are expected to sweep across most districts through July 17.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that all district administrations have been told to remain vigilant, with flood response plans already in place. The situation at Chashma Barrage is being closely monitored as water levels continue to rise, posing a significant threat to downstream areas.
According to a fact sheet from the PDMA Punjab, this year’s heavy monsoon rains have claimed 39 lives and left 103 people injured so far. Tragically, 20 children and five women are among the deceased. The leading causes of death include roof collapses, electrocution, drowning incidents, and lightning strikes. At least 47 houses have been damaged during the season.
The NDMA has strongly advised residents living near rivers, canals, and mountain streams to remain cautious—especially at night—when water levels can rise suddenly. People are urged not to attempt crossing flooded roads or bridges under any circumstances.
