KARACHI: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday issued a fresh alert, warning that heavy downpours are likely to cause flooding in several parts of the country till July 10. 

Monsoon rains in Pakistan have killed at least 66 people and injured 127 in rain-related incidents such as electrocutions, house collapses, landslides and drownings since June 26, according to the NDMA’s latest situation report. 

Pakistan, home to over 240 million people, is consistently ranked among the countries most vulnerable to climate change. In 2022, record-breaking monsoon rains and glacier melt caused catastrophic floods that affected 33 million people and killed more than 1,700.

“There is a risk of heavy rainfall and flooding across the country until July 10,” the NDMA said in its press release, warning that flash flooding and increased water levels are expected in streams and rivers across Pakistan’s four provinces, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan regions. 

It warned of increased water levels and flash floods in the country’s Chenab, Jhelum, Indus, Kabul, and Hunza rivers.

“Additionally, there is a risk of localized flooding in northeastern Punjab, southern Balochistan (including Awaran, Khuzdar, Jhal Magsi), and Azad Kashmir,” the statement said. 

The authority warned the masses against crossing streams and bridges during this period, urging residents in low-lying areas to take protective measures to prevent urban flooding.

The NDMA urged citizens to stay updated on the weather conditions and monitor its mobile application.