Pakistan Enters Critical 24-Hour Weather Window, NDMA Warns
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide weather advisory warning of severe weather conditions expected across multiple regions of Pakistan over the next 12 to 24 hours. According to officials, the country may experience thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rainfall, urban flooding, and glacier-related flood risks as part of an intensifying weather system.
The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) stated that the current weather pattern is consistent with seasonal forecasts issued earlier this year. The NDMA has been proactively sharing alerts, risk assessments, and preparedness guidelines with federal, provincial, and district authorities to ensure timely response and minimize potential damage.
Widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, windstorms, and dust storms is expected across Punjab, including major cities such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Multan, and Bahawalpur. Several other districts including Murree, Attock, Chakwal, Sargodha, Jhang, Kasur, Okara, and Rahim Yar Khan are also likely to be affected by heavy rain and gusty winds.
In northern regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, areas such as Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, and Rawalakot are expected to receive significant rainfall with thunderstorms. Similarly, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts including Swat, Chitral, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Peshawar, Mardan, and Dera Ismail Khan may also experience intense weather conditions.
Parts of Balochistan, including Turbat, Khuzdar, Kech, Awaran, and Zhob, are forecast to receive thunderstorms and rainfall, while several districts of Sindh including Karachi, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, and Jacobabad may face strong winds, dust storms, and isolated rainfall.
The NDMA has issued a specific warning regarding the increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in mountainous regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Azad Kashmir. These events can trigger sudden flooding, landslides, and debris flows, posing serious threats to local communities and infrastructure.
Authorities have directed all relevant departments and district administrations to remain on high alert and closely monitor vulnerable areas. Emergency response teams and rescue services have been instructed to stay fully prepared for any developing situation.
Tourists and travelers have been strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in northern areas where road closures due to landslides and flooding are possible. The public is encouraged to stay updated through official weather alerts and use the NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application for real-time information.
The NDMA has urged citizens to take precautionary measures, remain vigilant, and immediately contact local authorities or emergency services in case of any emergency. These proactive steps are aimed at reducing risks and ensuring public safety during the ongoing weather situation across the country.