Nationwide heavy rain alert issued till Aug 30

(Lahore): The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast intense rainfall across the country from today until August 30. In response, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert warning of possible flooding and urban inundation in several regions.

According to the NDMA, heavy rainstorms are expected in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir. There is a heightened risk of flooding in low-lying areas and potential landslides in hilly regions.

Flash flooding is feared in major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Faisalabad. Mountain streams and rivers are likely to experience strong surges of water.

The Meteorological Department stated that westerly winds will begin affecting upper regions from today. The Tarbela Dam has reached its maximum conservation level of 1,550 feet, prompting authorities to open its spillways. Water flow downstream may rise to as much as 250,000 cusecs.

In addition, the water level at the Guddu Barrage on the Indus River has risen, maintaining a moderate flood situation. The Sutlej River is also witnessing a rapid surge in water levels.

At Head Ganda Singh, the water level has risen to 20 feet. In several areas, breaches in protective embankments have resulted in crops being submerged, causing damages worth millions of rupees to local farmers.

Tragedy struck in Dera Ismail Khan, where a father and son drowned while attempting to cross the Indus River. Local residents recovered both bodies.

Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious and follow safety advisories as the country faces a critical weather situation in the coming days.