The NDMA rain alert has put several parts of Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, on high alert as heavy rains are expected to lash the country between August 29 and September 2. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of possible urban flooding, landslides, and overflowing rivers that could pose serious risks to both lives and infrastructure.
NDMA Rain Alert for Karachi and Sindh
According to the NDMA rain alert, Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, and Tharparkar may receive heavy rainfall between August 30 and September 2. Low-lying areas in the city are particularly vulnerable to urban flooding due to poor drainage systems. Hyderabad, Dadu, Sukkur, Larkana, Ghotki, Jacobabad, and Kashmore are also forecast to face downpours between August 30 and September 1.
Karachi has faced repeated urban flooding in recent years, with blocked drains and encroachments exacerbating the crisis. With monsoon rains intensifying, the NDMA has advised local authorities to remain on high alert and take preventive measures.
NDMA Rain Alert for Punjab
The NDMA rain alert also highlights risks for Punjab. From August 29 to 31, central and southern Punjab—including Multan, Bahawalpur, Rajanpur, and Rahim Yar Khan—are expected to receive significant rainfall. Northern Punjab districts such as Rawalpindi, Lahore, Gujranwala, and Sialkot will see downpours between August 30 and 31.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, heavy showers in these regions may cause rivers and canals to overflow. Low-lying areas are likely to be submerged, disrupting daily life and agricultural activities.
NDMA Rain Alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The NDMA rain alert has also extended to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where heavy rainfall between August 29 and 31 could trigger landslides in Malakand and Hazara divisions. Districts including Swat, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mansehra, and Mardan are forecast to receive heavy showers.
These areas are particularly prone to landslides during the monsoon, posing risks to road connectivity and human settlements. The NDMA has urged residents in vulnerable zones to remain cautious and follow safety advisories.
NDMA Rain Alert for Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan
The NDMA rain alert has warned that Azad Kashmir, including Muzaffarabad, Bagh, Kotli, Mirpur, and Bhimber, may experience torrential rains from August 29 to September 2. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan could face landslides in districts like Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu, and Astore during the same period.
Given the mountainous terrain, even moderate rainfall in these regions can lead to road blockages and severe disruptions in daily life.
NDMA Rain Alert for Balochistan
The NDMA rain alert further includes Balochistan, where Gwadar, Kech, Panjgur, Khuzdar, Lasbela, and Kalat are expected to receive heavy rains between August 29 and September 1. Flash floods are a major concern for the province, which has already suffered extensive damage from monsoon rains in past years.
Pakistan’s Flood Situation Worsens
The latest NDMA rain alert comes at a time when Pakistan is already struggling with torrential monsoon rains that have caused devastating floods across the country. Since late June, more than 800 people have lost their lives due to flooding, while thousands have been displaced.
In addition to domestic rainfall, the crisis has worsened after India released excess water from its dams into rivers flowing toward Pakistan. The Sutlej, Ravi, and Chenab rivers have seen significant increases in water levels, prompting mass evacuations. The NDMA reported that over 210,000 villagers have been relocated from flood-prone areas in Punjab to safer locations.
Preparedness and Safety Measures
The NDMA rain alert emphasizes the importance of preparedness in the face of such widespread threats. Local administrations across provinces have been instructed to clear drainage systems, deploy rescue teams, and ensure that relief camps are ready for displaced people.
Citizens have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains, keep emergency supplies on hand, and remain updated on official weather warnings.
The NDMA rain alert serves as a critical warning for Pakistan as multiple regions brace for heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides. Karachi faces the threat of urban flooding, Punjab may see rivers overflowing, and mountainous areas in KP, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan remain at risk of landslides. With more than 800 lives already lost this monsoon season, the situation highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness and effective response strategies.
As the country faces these extreme weather conditions, coordinated efforts from authorities and public cooperation will be essential to minimize damage and protect lives.
