It’s raining in Karachi. Photo: APP (file)
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday advised citizens to remain vigilant as intermittent pre-monsoon rains were expected across Pakistan from June 28 to July 3.
According to NDMA officials interviewed by media, a dangerous combination of intense heat and expected pre-monsoon rainfall was likely to accelerate the melting of glaciers, triggering a sharp rise in water levels in rivers and streams in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
The authority warned that vulnerable mountainous regions face increased risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOF), flash floods and landslides during the forecast period due to unstable and changing weather conditions.
Residents, tourists and travelers are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution in high-risk districts including Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu, Shigar, Ghanche, Kharmang, Astore, Diamer, Upper and Lower Chitral and Swat, where sudden climatic changes could create life-threatening situations.
The NDMA further urged the public to strictly avoid unnecessary movement near rivers, streams, glacial lakes and river banks, stressing the importance of immediately reporting any unusual or dangerous situations to local authorities to avoid loss of lives and property.
Learn more: Lahore is sweltering before the monsoon
Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) have been placed on high alert with strict instructions to ensure comprehensive emergency preparedness, rapid response capability and coordinated action in the event of a disaster triggered by the expected weather system.
Overall, the NDMA stressed that timely precautions, strict adherence to safety advisories and coordinated preparation at all levels were essential to minimize risks, protect lives and reduce potential damage from expected weather hazards.
