Pakistan has issued a high alert as more rain is expected across northern parts of the country, raising the risk of flash floods, rising water levels and landslides.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned that heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours could affect Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Several mountainous areas may face sudden flooding in rivers, streams and waterways.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, districts including Gilgit, Diamer, Ghizer, Hunza, Skardu, Astore and Shigar are considered at risk. Parts of KP, including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan and Mansehra, have also been placed under close watch.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department expects rain and thunderstorms to continue in northern areas through September 5. It also expects river flows and associated streams to rise during this period.
Authorities have been directed to keep emergency teams ready. Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid riverbanks, fast-flowing water and unnecessary travel in vulnerable mountainous areas.
