NDMA warns of storms, hail; flood risk looms in north from May 2-5

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 2nd May, 2026) The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), on Saturday issued a countrywide alert warning of thunderstorms, strong winds, heavy rain and hailstorms over the next 12 to 24 hours, with heightened risks of flash floods, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and landslides in northern regions between May 2 and 5.

The NDMA said the evolving weather pattern is consistent with its earlier seasonal outlook released three to four months ago, as well as forecasts issued for April to June.

Authorities noted that current conditions align closely with prior advisories.

In Punjab, strong winds and thunderstorms with rain are expected in multiple districts, including Murree, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Talagang, Gujar Khan, Jhelum, Sialkot, Narowal, Layyah, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Lahore, Faisalabad and Sahiwal. Isolated hailstorms are also likely.

Similar weather is forecast for parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Ghanche, Shigar, Kharmang, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, Rawalakot, Kotli, Mirpur and Bhimber.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Mingora, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Nowshera, Peshawar, Mardan, Bajaur, Parachinar, Charsadda, Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank and Dera Ismail Khan, with possible hailstorms in some areas.

The NDMA warned that heavy rainfall between May 2 and 5 could trigger flash floods in Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and AJK.

Areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Nagar, Ghizer, Diamer, Astore, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Bagh and Rawalakot are particularly vulnerable.

Rising temperatures are accelerating glacial melt, increasing the likelihood of glacial lake outburst floods, flash flooding and landslides.

Authorities cautioned that intense rainfall may cause streams and nullahs to overflow, posing risks to low-lying and flood-prone communities.

Landslides and debris flow in mountainous areas may block roads and disrupt transport, while small bridges, irrigation systems, grazing lands and local settlements could sustain damage.

The NDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, refrain from crossing flooded roads or weak bridges, and stay away from glacial lakes and unstable slopes. Residents have been urged to relocate livestock and valuables to safer locations and strictly follow instructions issued by local authorities.

Reduced visibility, slippery roads and temporary traffic disruptions are expected due to rain, thunderstorms and strong winds, while weak structures may suffer partial damage.

Citizens have been directed to remain in safe places during storms, exercise caution while travelling, and stay updated through official advisories, including the NDMA’s disaster alert mobile application.

The authority has also instructed all relevant departments to remain on high alert and take pre-emptive measures to mitigate potential risks.