28 Jul 2023 | 01:56 PM UTC
Pakistan: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab provinces as of July 28
Weather-related disruptions ongoing across parts of western and northern Pakistan as of July 28. Further adverse weather forecast.
Event
Flooding and other weather-related disruptions are ongoing across parts of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab provinces as of July 28. Heavy monsoon rains across the region in recent days have triggered flash flooding and landslides in parts of the affected area. Authorities reported five weather-related fatalities in parts of Balochistan and five others in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on July 27. Flooding and landslides have damaged hundreds of homes, displacing thousands of people. Many roads across the affected areas have been made impassable by flooding and landslides, including some major highways. Rivers and dams in the region remain at dangerously high levels, and further downpours will likely trigger additional flooding and landslides, as well as hamper ongoing response and recovery operations.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a weather warning for vigorous monsoon activity in northern and central regions through at least July 30. Heavy downpours may be accompanied by thunderstorm activity and strong winds. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in affected areas. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for updates on road status and weather conditions. Confirm road status and seek alternative routes to reach destinations in the affected areas; allow additional travel time. Delivery disruptions are possible; consider delaying or rerouting shipments until road access normalizes. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
