Islamabad: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high alert for significant monsoon activity expected to affect most parts of Pakistan from August 1st to 6th, 2024. The advisory predicts substantial rainfall and thunderstorms that could lead to widespread flash flooding, especially in areas such as Murree, Galliyat, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, among other regions.
According to Press Information Department, the monsoon currents originating from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal are set to impact the upper parts of the country starting July 31st and will spread to central and southern regions by August 2nd. This intense weather system is likely to cause urban flooding in major cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Peshawar, and might also trigger hill torrents and landslides in vulnerable areas.
The NDMA has urged provincial disaster management authorities and other relevant agencies to stay vigilant and prepare for potential emergencies by ensuring the pre-placement of necessary machinery and the availability of staff. Local authorities are advised to sensitize residents about the increase in water levels and to coordinate timely evacuations. Citizens are also encouraged to exercise caution, avoid waterlogged roads, and stay clear of unstable structures.
Moreover, the NDMA has launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application to provide timely updates and advisories, which is now available for download on both Google Play Store and iOS App Store to assist the public in staying informed during this critical period.