The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has issued urgent flood warnings as Punjab’s Mangla and Chenab regions brace for rising water levels, following the arrival of a new westerly wave.
Rainfall is expected to intensify across upper and central Pakistan until August 10, increasing river flows and flood risks.
Officials warned that the River Jhelum, particularly upstream of Mangla, is forecasted to hit high flood levels, while the Chenab River at Marala, Khanki, and Qadirabad may surge into medium to high flood stages.
Meanwhile, River Kabul at Nowshera is expected to record low flood levels, and tributaries like Swat and Panjkora rivers and nullahs may rise to medium flows due to sustained rainfall.
Although Tarbela, Kalabagh, Chashma, Taunsa, and Guddu barrages are currently at low flood levels, NEOC cautioned that escalating inflows could elevate them to medium flood stage.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the Hunza and Shigar rivers, including tributaries such as Hispar, Shimshal and Saltoro, are prone to sudden flash flooding; Balochistan districts like Musakhel, Sherani, Zhob, and Sibi may also see swollen streams from rain‑fed catchments.
Currently, the Tarbela Dam is holding 73% of its capacity, and the Mangla Dam stands at 43%, with expected rises in storage due to incoming rainfall.
NEOC strongly advises people living near rivers and flood-prone streams to remain alert for sudden water level surges—especially overnight or during heavy downpours—and to prepare emergency plans.
Residents are urged to pack kits with essential supplies, move livestock and vehicles to higher ground, and avoid crossing flooded causeways or roads, as just six inches of fast-moving water is enough to knock an adult over, and a foot of water can carry away vehicles.
