22 Aug 2023 | 03:01 PM UTC
Pakistan: Disruptions due to flooding ongoing across parts of Punjab Province as of Aug. 22
Flood-related disruptions ongoing across parts of Punjab Province, Pakistan, as of Aug. 22. Tens of thousands evacuated.
Event
Flooding associated with high river levels along the Sutlej River in Punjab Province is causing widespread disruptions as of Aug. 22. River levels have been rising since Aug. 19 following the release of water from a dam upstream in India. Flooding has been ongoing in parts of Kausr District since Aug. 20; authorities have evacuated more than 23,000 people across the district. Further flooding is possible in other areas along the Sutlej in the coming days and preventative evacuations have also been ordered in other districts along the river, including more than 76,000 people in flood-prone areas of Bahawalpur. Rainfall and thunderstorms are forecast over the region in the coming days, which could exacerbate the situation.
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.
