The National Emergency Operations Centre of the National Disaster Management Authority has warned of a potential flood situation over the next 72 hours as heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds are expected across Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Authorities have been asked to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures to protect vulnerable communities.
According to the latest alert, intense rainfall in mountainous areas could cause sharp rises in rivers, streams and seasonal nullahs. Landslides, flash floods and debris flows may also create additional risks in sensitive locations.
Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Astore, Skardu and Shigar are among the areas facing the possibility of sudden flooding.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, vulnerable areas include Bagh, Poonch, Muzaffarabad, Haveli, Bhimber, Sudhanoti, Mirpur and Kotli.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Shangla, Battagram, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad and Haripur may also face sudden flooding after intense rainfall.
The weather system could also trigger urban flooding in Nowshera, Peshawar, Swabi and Mardan, while low-lying areas and connecting roads may remain especially vulnerable to inundation.
The National Emergency Operations Centre has forecast increased flows in the Indus, Kabul, Swat, Panjkora, Kurram, Tochi, Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi rivers during the next 72 hours.
Rising water levels are also expected at several points along major rivers and adjoining streams and nullahs.
In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, rainfall could cause a significant increase in the flow of Nullah Lai, raising the risk of flooding in low-lying localities.
Relevant authorities have been directed to stay vigilant and ensure timely preventive measures.
The NDMA has placed particular emphasis on preparedness in mountainous areas, where monsoon rains can quickly trigger landslides, debris flows and flash floods.
Local administrations have been instructed to pre-position essential resources in vulnerable areas and keep safe evacuation arrangements ready.
The authority has also advised residents, tourists and travellers in flood-prone areas to stay away from riverbanks, streams, seasonal waterways and other vulnerable places.
It said unnecessary travel should be avoided, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
The NDMA cautioned the public against trying to cross flooded roads, bridges, nullahs or fast-moving water on foot or in vehicles.
It warned that even shallow but fast-moving water can be strong enough to sweep away people and vehicles.
Travellers have been advised to check the latest weather forecasts and road conditions before setting out.
People have also been urged to avoid roads closed by the administration and follow all traffic and safety advisories.
The NDMA said it is maintaining continuous coordination with relevant authorities and providing timely information, forecasts and early warnings to support a proactive response and reduce the impact of possible flooding.
The public has been advised to monitor official weather updates and district administration instructions and use the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert app for timely alerts.
In case of a flood emergency, citizens have been advised to dial 911 for assistance.
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