Nationwide Flood Warning Issued: Monsoon Safety Advisory for Motorists

The National Disaster Management Authority has issued a nationwide warning for flash floods, urban flooding, landslides, and rising river levels as heavy monsoon rains continue across several parts of Pakistan.

The alert covers the period from July 21 to July 24 and includes vulnerable areas in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and northeastern Balochistan. Authorities have been directed to remain on high alert, deploy emergency teams and monitor rivers, streams and low-lying areas.

The warning comes after at least 12 people were killed and 18 injured in rain-related incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over three days. Half of the deaths were reported in Khyber district, where a vehicle carrying Afghan families was swept away by a flash flood.

Cities Facing Urban Flooding Risk

The NDMA has warned of possible urban flooding in low-lying areas of Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Jhelum, Sargodha, Narowal, Okara, Chakwal, Attock and Khushab.

Heavy rain has already inundated parts of Rawalpindi, Islamabad and Murree, while prolonged rainfall has also caused power disruptions across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Motorists in major cities should expect water accumulation, reduced visibility, traffic congestion and possible road closures, particularly around underpasses, drainage channels and low-lying intersections.

Flash Flood and River Warnings

The NDMA has identified several rivers, hill torrents and seasonal streams at risk of sudden flooding.

In Punjab, high water flows may affect hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan, the Soan River and the Potohar region. High-level flooding has also been forecast at Marala Headworks on the Chenab River and in the upper reaches of Mangla on the Jhelum River.

Flash-flood risk has also been highlighted along rivers and streams in Swat, Chitral, Kabul, Panjkora, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities have advised people not to cross rivers, streams or flooded channels during periods of strong water flow.

Landslide Risk on Northern Routes

A separate landslide warning has been issued for Chitral and several mountainous areas of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Routes around Bamburet, Drosh, Upper Yasin, Karimabad, Hopper Nagar, Astore, and parts of the Jaglot-Skardu Road may experience falling rocks, debris flows, and temporary blockages. The public has been advised to avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable mountainous areas during the warning period.

Travelers heading towards northern areas should check road conditions before departure and avoid driving at night or during intense rainfall.

Monsoon Driving Advisory

Heavy rain can quickly make roads dangerous, with water hiding potholes, open manholes, damaged surfaces and exposed electrical hazards.

Never Enter Moving Floodwater

Do not attempt to cross fast-moving water, even in an SUV. The depth may be misleading, the road could be damaged, and the current may push the vehicle off course.

If a road is flooded, turn back. Following another vehicle does not make the route safe.

Do Not Restart a Stalled Car

If your vehicle stalls in deep water, do not restart it. Water may have entered the engine, and another attempt could cause serious damage.

Switch off the ignition, leave the vehicle when safe, and move to higher ground. If water is rising, lower the windows before the electrical system fails.

Slow Down and Keep Your Distance

Wet roads reduce tyre grip and increase braking distance. Drive slowly, leave extra space and avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking.

Do not use cruise control in heavy rain, and avoid unnecessary overtaking when spray from larger vehicles reduces visibility.

Use Low-Beam Headlights

Switch on low-beam headlights so other road users can see you.

Do not use hazard lights while driving unless there is an emergency, as they can make lane changes and turns difficult for others to read.

Check Tyres, Wipers and Brakes

Inspect tyres, wipers, lights, brakes and the demisting system before traveling.

After passing through shallow water, test the brakes gently at low speed. Worn tyres and damaged wipers can sharply increase the risk of skidding and poor visibility.

Avoid Underpasses and Low-Lying Roads

Underpasses and low-lying routes can flood within minutes.

Do not enter if the water level is unclear. Park away from drains, riverbanks, flood-prone roads and underground parking areas in vulnerable locations.

Advice for Motorcyclists

Avoid riding during heavy rain wherever possible.

Those who must travel should wear a properly fastened helmet, reduce speed, maintain extra distance and avoid standing water, metal covers and painted road markings.

Loose raincoats, plastic sheets and shawls can become trapped in the chain or rear wheel and should not be used.

Stay Away From Trees and Power Lines

Do not shelter under trees, billboards, electricity poles or weak walls.

Floodwater near damaged electrical infrastructure may be live, even when no sparks are visible.

Carry Basic Emergency Supplies

Keep a charged phone, power bank, flashlight, drinking water, first-aid kit, essential medicines and a warning triangle in the vehicle. Those traveling to remote or mountainous areas should share their route and expected arrival time with family.

Delay Non-Essential Travel

The safest option during extreme rain is often to postpone the journey.

Conditions can worsen quickly near streams, underpasses, hill torrents and mountain roads. A delayed trip is safer than testing a flooded route.

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