The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Tuesday warned of heavy weather-related risks across Pakistan from June 16 to 20, forecasting thunderstorms, strong winds, rainfall, hailstorms and possible flooding in northern and upper regions as a western weather system moves across the country, while authorities have been directed to remain on high alert to mitigate potential emergencies, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
According to an alert issued by the NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), the weather pattern aligns with a seasonal outlook released three to four months ago, underscoring the effectiveness of early forecasting in supporting preparedness and response measures.
The authority said Islamabad, large parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Balochistan and northern districts of Sindh are likely to receive rain accompanied by thunderstorms during the forecast period. Isolated hailstorms and strong winds may also occur in several areas.
The NDMA warned that rainfall coupled with rising temperatures could trigger flood-like conditions in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir between June 16 and 19.
The authority also highlighted the danger of rapidly melting glaciers and the possible bursting of glacial lakes, which could significantly increase water flows in mountain streams and rivers.
Areas including Hassanabad, Shisper, Gulkin, Gulmit, Passu, Nagar, Ghizer, Skardu and Shigar have been identified as being at heightened risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), the alert said.
The authority further cautioned that landslides, flash floods and overflowing streams could disrupt road networks and block key communication routes in mountainous regions. Relevant federal, provincial and district authorities have been instructed to maintain vigilance, particularly along vulnerable highways and in high-risk areas.
The NDMA advised tourists and travellers planning to visit northern regions to check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure and urged the public to stay informed through the official “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application.
The authority said all provincial and district administrations had been directed to ensure preparedness and maintain readiness to respond swiftly to any weather-related emergency.
