Monsoon Season Brings Flood and Landslide Warning in Northern Pakistan

Strategic Insights -

Heavy rains from July 28 to 31 are expected to trigger floods and landslides in Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warning of potential urban flooding in Muzaffarabad and Bagh due to heavy downpours. The National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a statement advising the public to be cautious, while the NDMA has directed local authorities and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) to take proactive measures. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted heavy rains from July 29 to 31, which may contribute to flash floods in Kabul River tributaries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NDMA has warned of flood and landslides in Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) due to expected rains from July 28 to 31.
  • Heavy showers are expected in Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, and Shigar as well as in Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh, which may lead to flooding and landslides.
  • Urban flooding is likely in Muzaffarabad and Bagh due to heavy downpours.
  • The NDMA has directed local authorities and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs) to take proactive measures, ensure the readiness of personnel, machinery, and rescue teams, and remain vigilant to deal with any emergency situation.
  • The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted heavy rains from July 29 to 31, which may contribute to flash floods in Kabul River tributaries.
  • Punjab has been the hardest-hit province, with 151 confirmed deaths and 536 injuries, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (64 deaths and 80 injuries), Sindh (25 deaths and 40 injuries), Balochistan (20 fatalities and four injuries), Gilgit-Baltistan (9 deaths and 4 injuries), and Azad Kashmir (2 deaths and 10 injuries).
  • Islamabad has confirmed eight deaths and three injuries, with hundreds of homes damaged, families displaced, and livestock lost.
  • The property damage has been extensive, with 362 homes damaged in the past day, and a total of 1,553 affected homes.
  • At least 374 livestock have perished.

Statistics:

  • 279 fatalities have been reported so far, with 8 more deaths in the past 24 hours.
  • 676 people have been injured, with Punjab having the highest number of injuries (536) followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (80).
  • 1,553 homes have been affected, with 362 homes damaged in the past day.
  • 374 livestock have perished.

Sources:

  • National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
  • National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC)
  • Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)
  • Various news sources reporting on the monsoon season and its impact on Pakistan.