Pakistan may face a heightened risk of flooding during this year’s monsoon due to the possible impact of El Nino and Super El Nino, according to NDMA official Zahra Hassan.
Speaking to Samaa TV, Hassan warned that upper parts of the country, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Pothohar could be affected by intense rainfall and flooding.
What is El Nino?
El Nino is a weather pattern linked to rising ocean temperatures, which can influence rainfall, heat and storm systems in different parts of the world.
NDMA official Zahra Hassan said that when the ocean temperature reaches 8 degrees, it is called El Nino.
She explained that changes in ocean temperature can also affect the earth’s temperature, increasing the chances of unusual weather conditions.
What is Super El Nino?
Zahra Hassan said Super El Nino occurs when the temperature goes above 2 degrees. According to her, there is a risk of Super El Nino during the monsoon this year.
She said such conditions can intensify weather patterns and increase the chances of heavy rainfall in vulnerable regions.
The NDMA official warned that monsoon rains may be heavier in Pakistan’s upper areas and Balochistan this year. This could increase the risk of flooding, especially in regions already vulnerable to sudden changes in weather and heavy rainfall.
Authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation as the monsoon season approaches.
Flash flooding likely in KP, Kashmir
Hassan said El Nino conditions could lead to flash flooding in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir.
Flash floods are especially dangerous because they can develop quickly after intense rainfall, leaving little time for residents to move to safer places. Mountainous terrain, overflowing streams and poor drainage can make such flooding more severe in these areas.
The NDMA official also warned of a risk of urban flooding in Gilgit-Baltistan and Pothohar during the monsoon. Urban flooding can occur when heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems, roads and low-lying areas.
Residents in vulnerable areas have been urged to remain alert during spells of heavy rain and follow official advisories.
Rising ocean temperatures may increase earth’s heat
Hassan said the rise in ocean temperature linked to El Nino could also increase the earth’s temperature. This may add to heat-related weather stress and contribute to more unstable weather patterns during the season.
The warning comes as Pakistan prepares for a monsoon period that could bring heavier rains, sudden floods and urban drainage challenges in several regions.
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