ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide flood alert, warning that rising water levels in major rivers and heavy monsoon rains could trigger flooding in several parts of Pakistan over the next three days, prompting authorities to activate emergency preparedness measures and advise the public to remain vigilant.
According to the NDMA, water flows in the country’s major rivers are expected to increase significantly from August 2 to August 4 due to continued rainfall in upper catchment areas. Provincial disaster management authorities, district administrations and rescue agencies have been directed to remain on high alert to respond promptly to any emergency situation.
The authority reported high-level flooding in River Lehri at Head Gogi, making it one of the most vulnerable locations currently under observation. Medium-level flooding has also been recorded in Nullah Palkhu at Wazirabad, where officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent possible damage to nearby settlements.
Along the Indus River, low-level flooding has been observed at Kalabagh, Chashma, Guddu and Sukkur. Although the situation remains manageable, officials warned that additional rainfall in upstream regions could cause water levels to rise further in the coming days.
Low-level flooding has also been reported at Head Nari on River Nari. Local administrations have been instructed to monitor embankments, irrigation infrastructure and nearby communities to minimise potential losses.
The NDMA said River Chenab is likely to experience high water flows at Marala, while low-level flooding is expected at Khanki and Qadirabad. Authorities are keeping a close watch on water discharge and rainfall forecasts to assess the evolving flood situation.
Meanwhile, rivers Jhelum, Ravi and Kabul, along with their tributaries, are also expected to witness low to medium-level water flows. Officials warned that medium to high-level flooding could develop in streams connected to the Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi river systems if rainfall continues.
The authority noted that water levels in the Ravi and Sutlej rivers will largely depend on the volume of water released from reservoirs across the border. Relevant departments have been instructed to maintain coordination and monitor developments affecting downstream flows.
Apart from river flooding, the NDMA warned of flash floods in hill torrents located in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur districts of Punjab. Similar risks have been identified in seasonal streams and drainage channels across central and southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well as northern parts of Balochistan.
Urban flooding also remains a major concern due to continuous monsoon rainfall. The authority identified Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Mardan and Nowshera among the cities facing elevated flood risks.
In Sindh, Hyderabad, Badin, Thatta and other low-lying urban centres have also been placed under alert because heavy rainfall could overwhelm drainage systems and inundate residential areas.
The NDMA has advised provincial governments to ensure that drainage systems remain functional, emergency response teams remain fully equipped and rescue personnel stay prepared for rapid deployment wherever required.
Rescue agencies have also been directed to keep boats, heavy machinery, emergency medical supplies and communication equipment ready in flood-prone districts. Authorities are expected to maintain continuous monitoring of river gauges and weather forecasts throughout the alert period.
Citizens living near rivers, streams and low-lying areas have been urged to remain informed through official weather updates and follow instructions issued by local administrations. The NDMA advised residents to avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges and streams, particularly during heavy rainfall.
Travellers have also been cautioned against unnecessary journeys into areas vulnerable to flash flooding or landslides until weather conditions improve. Farmers and livestock owners have been advised to move animals and valuable equipment to safer locations where necessary.
The authority emphasised that timely preparedness and public cooperation remain essential to reducing the impact of monsoon-related disasters. It urged people to report emergencies immediately to local rescue services and avoid spreading unverified information on social media.
With more rainfall forecast across northern and central Pakistan over the coming days, authorities say coordinated action among disaster management agencies, provincial governments and local communities will be crucial in protecting lives, infrastructure and public property during the ongoing monsoon season.
