NDMA issues flood alert as heavy rains forecast across Sindh

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Emergencies Operation Centre have issued an alert warning of heavy rains and potential flooding across several districts of Sindh between September 6 and 9.

According to the advisory, intermittent rains are expected during this period, posing a serious risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas of Mirpurkhas, Shaheed Benazirabad, Tharparkar, Khairpur, and Sukkur between September 7 and 9. Similar conditions are also anticipated in Larkana, Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Hyderabad, and Karachi, where drainage systems are likely to come under severe pressure.

The NDMA further cautioned about the possibility of flash floods in parts of Tharparkar, including Mithi, Islamkot, Nagarparkar, Chhachro, Dhali, Diplo, and Kaloi, due to heavy downpours and runoff from adjacent mountain streams. Flash flooding is also feared in Umerkot, Sanghar, Thatta, Badin, Sujawal, Jamshoro, Dadu, Ghotki, and Kashmore.

The alert highlights that major urban centres, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur, Larkana, Khairpur, Shaheed Benazirabad, Jacobabad, and Shikarpur, may experience waterlogging and flooding in vulnerable neighbourhoods.

On the NDMA’s instructions, provincial departments, local administrations, and rescue agencies have been put on high alert to ensure a timely response to any emergencies. Authorities have urged residents of low-lying areas to adopt safety precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and strictly follow directives issued by the administration.

The NDMA emphasised that the proactive cooperation of citizens is crucial in minimising the risks posed by the expected rains and potential flooding.

Reporter: Rozina Ali