NDMA warns of intensifying monsoon rains, flood risks across Pakistan

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a grave warning regarding ongoing heavy rains and potential flooding across Pakistan.

According to NDMA’s technical expert, Tayyab Shah, the current spell of monsoon rains will continue until August 22 with further intensification expected.

He added that another wave of monsoon activity is likely to begin after August 22, with three additional weather systems approaching Pakistan. One system is moving in from the Bay of Bengal, while another is advancing from Afghanistan’s Nangarhar and Kandahar regions.

Shah cautioned that northern areas and several parts of Punjab are at high risk.

NDMA’s General Manager, Zara Hassan, stated that heavy rainfall is expected over the next 24 to 48 hours. She warned that Tarbela Dam is already 98 percent full, raising fears of dangerously high water levels.

According to her, water levels have surged to 15 feet in Katarian and Gawalmandi, while continuous rains over the Koh-e-Suleman range have heightened flood threats in Neelum, Poonch, and Bagh. Peshawar, Chitral, Dir, and Charsadda have also been identified as severely vulnerable.

Brigadier Kamran, Member Operations NDMA, said preparations for the monsoon season had been underway since February 2025 in coordination with provincial governments.

He revealed that cloudbursts in Buner and Bajaur caused widespread destruction. Over the past two days alone, 337 people have lost their lives and 178 sustained injuries.

He added that the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps (FC) are actively engaged in rescue operations, with the federal government dispatching additional relief consignments.

NDMA Chairman Lieutenant General Inam Haider explained that unusual heat patterns have expanded the intensity of the monsoon.

Flash floods and accidents involving tourists have been reported in Gilgit-Baltistan.

He added that monsoon spells will persist until the first 10 days of September. A comprehensive survey will be conducted to assess damages, while restoration of communication infrastructure will be prioritized.