ISLAMABAD: As the flood continue to hit Punjab, the National Disaster Management Authority has advised PDMA Sindh to start evacuation of vulnerable communities living along the katcha areas and low-lying belts of River Indus.
The authority has issued this advisory in view of the Exceptionally High and Very High Flood levels being recorded at upstream locations in Rivers Chenab, Ravi and Sutlej. It is anticipated that these floodwaters will ultimately contribute to rising flows in the River Indus.
The NDMA emphasized to identify and prepare safe evacuation routes and designate temporary shelters with provision of essential services. It urged the provincial authorities to ensure forward placement of heavy machinery and equipment like dewatering pumps, excavators and transport vehicles at strategic locations for timely response.
The NDMA advised to take necessary relief stock including food, safe drinking water, tents, medicines and non-food items at district and tehsil levels and ensure adequate availability of fuel and transport for quick mobilization during emergencies.
Regarding strengthening critical infrastructure, it called for monitoring embankments, bunds, and canals for any breaches, seepages, or weak points. Immediate reinforcement and plugging arrangements should be in place. It further stressed the need for ensuring power backup and flood protection measures for critical health facilities and water supply schemes.
About community awareness and early warning, the National Disaster Management Authority emphasized the need for disseminating timely early warning messages to at-risk populations through local administration, mosques, media and community networks. It said mobilization of local volunteers and community-based organizations are critical to support evacuation and relief efforts.
Earlier, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) officially announced the 9th spell of monsoon rains in Pakistan, forecasting widespread showers across northern and central regions of the country from August 29 to September 2, 2025.
PMD Forecast for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is among the most affected provinces in the 9th spell of monsoon rains in Pakistan. Between August 29 and September 1, rainfall is predicted across several districts, including:
- Chitral, Dir, and Swat
- Kohistan, Mansehra, and Abbottabad
- Nowshera, Kohat, and Karak
- Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, and Swabi
- Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan, and Dera Ismail Khan
These areas are already vulnerable due to their geography. Torrential rains could lead to flash floods in streams and nullahs, particularly in hilly and semi-hilly districts. PMD has cautioned residents living near riverbanks and slopes to remain vigilant.
Rainfall Expected in Punjab
Punjab is also bracing for heavy showers as part of the 9th monsoon spell. Between August 29 and September 2, rain with thunderstorms is expected in:
- Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, and Galiyat
- Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sialkot
- Narowal, Khushab, and Sargodha
The Met Office has specifically warned of flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while streams and nullahs in northern Punjab could overflow due to the intensity of rainfall. Residents of Murree and Galiyat have also been cautioned about possible landslides that may obstruct roads and disrupt tourism during the rainy spell.
Sindh and Balochistan Included in Forecast
The 9th spell of monsoon rains in Pakistan will not remain limited to the northern and central regions. From August 30 to 31, several districts of Sindh, including Mithi, Tharparkar, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Dadu, and Umerkot, are likely to experience showers.
Similarly, in Balochistan, rainfall is predicted between August 30 and September 1 in areas such as Barkhan, Musakhel, Loralai, Sibi, Zhob, Kalat, and Khuzdar. These districts often face challenges with drainage and connectivity, making them highly vulnerable during prolonged rain spells.
