The National Authority (NDMA) National Emergency Operationd Center (NEOC) of the National Disaster Management Authority has issued urgent warnings as regions of Mangla and Chenab of Punjab for the increase in water levels, after the arrival of a new West wave.
Precipitation should intensify through higher and central Pakistan until August 10, increasing the flows of the river and the risk of flooding.
Officials have warned that the Jhelum river, in particular upstream of Mangla, should reach high flood levels, while the Chenab river in Marala, Khanki and Qadirabad can be transformed into high to high flood stages.
Meanwhile, River Kabul in Nowshera should record low flood levels, and tributaries such as Swat and Panjkora rivers and draws can reach average flows due to sustained precipitation.
Although Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa and the Guddu dams are currently at low flood levels, the Neoc has warned that the climbing of entries could raise them at an average flood stadium.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the Hunza and Shigar rivers, including tributaries such as Hispar, Shimshal and Saltoro, are subject to sudden floods; Balutchistan districts like Musakhel, Sherani, Zhob and Sibi can also see swollen streams from steep watersheds.
Currently, the Tarbela dam holds 73% of its capacity, and the Mangla dam is 43%, with increases expected according to incoming precipitation.
Neoc strongly advises people living near rivers and streams subject to floods to remain vigilant for sudden overvoltages in the water – especially during the night or during strong showers – and to prepare emergency plans.
Residents are requested to wrap kits with essential supplies, move cattle and vehicles to higher land and avoid crossing roads or flooded roads, as only six inch of fast water are sufficient to overthrow an adult, and a water foot can take vehicles.
