Flash flood warning issued for KP, AJK, and northern Punjab

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s disaster management authorities have issued a high alert for flash floods as a strong western weather system is expected to bring heavy rain and snowfall to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and northern Punjab between January 21 and 24.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned that heavy precipitation could increase water flow in streams connected to the Kabul River, posing risks to low‑lying and vulnerable areas. Provincial and district administrations in KP have been directed to remain on high alert and closely monitor sensitive locations.

The advisory covers Swat, Chitral, Buner, Shangla, Lower and Upper Dir, Malakand, Bajaur, Mardan, Swabi, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Battagram, Torghar, Haripur, Kolai Palas Kohistan, and several parts of AJK.

Recent weather reports confirm rain and snowfall in Chitral, Kalam, Malam Jabba, Patan Kohistan, and Dir. Temperatures dropped to minus four degrees Celsius in Kalam, Malam Jabba, and Parachinar, while Upper Dir recorded zero degrees, Chitral one degree, and Peshawar five degrees. Kalam received the heaviest snowfall.

In Lower Chitral, snowfall was reported in Kalash valleys, Lowari Tunnel, Madaklasht, and Garam Chashma, with accumulations ranging from three to five inches. Upper Chitral areas including Shandur, Laspur, and Yarkhun also experienced snowfall. Despite the conditions, traffic on the Lowari Tunnel Road remains open, though authorities have advised drivers to use snow chains and exercise caution.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has forecast heavy rain and snowfall in Murree, Galiyat, and surrounding areas, with snowfall expected to continue until January 23.

PDMA Director General said 13 facilitation centers have been set up in Murree to assist tourists. Travelers have been urged to check weather conditions before setting out and avoid unnecessary travel. Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed instructed all departments to remain on high alert and ensure round‑the‑clock readiness, stressing that district administrations will be present on the ground to guide and protect visitors.