NEOC warns of more flash floods amid widespread monsoon rains

The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued a number of impact-based weather warnings as the current monsoon system is forecast to deliver heavy precipitation over much of the nation in the coming days.

As per the latest advisory, various parts of Pakistan, particularly in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, can expect heavy rain, gusty winds, urban flooding, and potential flash floods in the next 24 to 72 hours.

Downpours are also expected over the next 12 to 24 hours in Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Multan, Okara, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh, Narowal, Khanewal, Bahawalnagar, and Jhang in Punjab. Islamabad is also likely to get the same weather.

This may result in power cuts, traffic jams, and damage to weak infrastructure. Road visibility might be reduced, posing dangers for commuters.

The NEOC has declared a flash flood warning up to July 18 for northeastern and southern Punjab. The areas covered under the alert are Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Muzaffargarh, Lodhran, D.G. Khan, and Rajanpur, where heavy to very heavy rain will result in flooding of local streams and drains.

The hill torrents can again become active in Rajanpur and D.G. Khan, increasing the chances of medium to high water flows.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chitral, Swat, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Kohat, and Waziristan districts are likely to get rain during the next 24 hours.

Read more: PMD: Strong monsoon system to bring heavy rains across Pakistan from tomorrow

There is a possibility of flash floods in hill streams, trees falling, and road mishaps due to poor visibility and slippery roads.

In Balochistan, isolated thunderstorms with rain are predicted in Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Sibi, Kalat, and nearby places. Rain and wind can cause temporary power outages and risky travel, especially during stormy weather.

The NDMA has urged the public to remain cautious, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas.

Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, protect their livestock and belongings, and stay away from weak buildings and power lines during storms.

Tourists have been strongly warned against visiting mountainous or high-altitude regions during this period.