PESHAWAR: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned of possible flooding in several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, asking the people living on river banks and low-lying areas to remain vigilant and follow official guidelines. According to an advisory issued on Tuesday, the Kabul River at Nowshera is expected to experience low to medium-level flooding during the period, while flash floods are likely in its tributaries as well as in Kohat Toi, Kurram and Gomal rivers. The authority also cautioned that urban flooding may occur in Peshawar, Mardan and Nowshera.
The PDMA directed district administrations to identify vulnerable locations, ensure preparedness, and take precautionary measures to prevent loss of life, damage to infrastructure, crops and livestock.
Emergency services, including Rescue 1122, have been instructed to remain on high alert and ensure the availability of personnel and equipment, particularly in high-risk areas.Officials said the flood threat has been exacerbated by the situation across the border in Afghanistan, where heavy rains have triggered high flows in both major and minor rivers. Floodwaters from regions including Jalalabad and Nuristan have reached close to the border.
Authorities noted that multiple rivers in Afghanistan are converging into the Kabul River, creating a strong flood surge. Tributaries such as Panjshir, Kunar and others are already in high flow, further swelling the river system. The rising water in the Kabul River pose a threat to downstream areas, including Peshawar, Charsadda and Nowshera, and could also impact areas further downstream beyond Attock.
Meanwhile, satellite-based assessments by Google Flood Hub have described the situation as alarming, indicating rapidly increasing water levels in rivers and low-lying urban regions. Authorities warned that if the flow intensifies further, the flood threat could escalate significantly.
Residents living along riverbanks and in low-lying areas were advised to remain vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and shift to safer locations if required. The public was urged to follow official precautions and contact Rescue 1122 in times of emergencies.
