The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a warning for potential heavy rains and flash flooding in several regions of Pakistan, with severe weather conditions expected to continue until August 19.
The advisory, issued on Saturday, forecasts widespread thunderstorms and heavy rain in Sindh, South Punjab, and Balochistan, which could lead to flash floods.
The NDMA specifically highlighted the risk of “widespread thunderstorm rain of moderate to heavy intensity,” with particularly severe conditions expected in Sindh, and across DG Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Zhob, Loralai, Nasirabad, Sibbi, Kalat, and Makran Divisions.
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Flash flooding is anticipated in the hill torrents of DG Khan Division and the Nullahs of Sibbi, Nasirabad, Zhob, Kalat, Larkana, and Hyderabad (Dadu and Naushahro Feroze Districts) Divisions from August 17 to 19.
In response, the NDMA has instructed all relevant departments to take necessary precautions to mitigate the impact of the expected flooding and severe weather. These include enhanced monitoring to reduce response times, maintaining readiness among civic agencies and rescue services, and ensuring the availability of personnel and equipment in at-risk areas.
The NDMA has also advised the timely evacuation of people living in low-lying, flood-prone areas, with provisions for shelter, food, and medicines in evacuation camps. Additionally, locals and farmers have been warned to move cattle away from low-lying areas near rivers and tributaries.
Power distribution companies (Discos) and local authorities have been directed to take steps to prevent electrocution incidents and to ensure the timely restoration of power. They have also been tasked with coordinating road clearance in case of blockages, managing waterlogging, and positioning emergency equipment in vulnerable locations.
