NDMA issues flood and landslide alerts amid monsoon rains

Monsoon system expected to bring heavy rains, and cause flooding in local rivers and streams

Following the entry of the monsoon system into upper regions, alerts have been issued to relevant agencies due to increased risks of flooding in rivers and streams and potential landslides.

According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the monsoon system has moved into the country's upper regions from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.

This system is expected to bring heavy rains, which could cause flooding in local rivers and streams in areas like Murree, Galliyat, Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Dir, and Shangla.

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There are also concerns about flooding in local streams in Buner, Bannu, Kurram, Waziristan, Dera Ismail Khan, Orakzai, Khyber, Mohmand, Nowshera, and Swabi.

The twin cities, Islamabad and Rawalpindi, as well as northeastern Punjab, are also at risk of flooding in local streams, while hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Suleiman Range, and Kirthar Range could lead to flood situations.

The NDMA alert warns that torrential rains could lead to urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Nowshera, and Peshawar. Additionally, heavy rains may cause an increase in water levels in rivers and streams.

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Under the monsoon system, there is a potential for landslides in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority and other relevant sub-agencies have been directed to remain prepared for any emergency situations.

The NDMA has appealed to the public to take precautionary measures, advising them to stay away from power poles and weak structures. People are urged to avoid driving or walking in fast-flowing waterways and streams.

Tourists and travelers are also advised to exercise caution during travel and check the weather and road conditions before setting out.