Key points
- Stay informed about weather forecasts and flood alerts
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters
- Evacuate to higher ground immediately if advised by authorities
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recommended several preventive measures to reduce the impact of flash floods as well as landslides.
The NDMA has advised the people to stay informed about weather forecasts and flood alerts and evacuate to higher ground immediately if advised by authorities.
According to the NDMA’s website, people should coordinate with neighbouring communities and authorities for flood conditions, mutual aid and support. It also stressed implementation of long-term flood mitigation measures such as improving drainage systems and resilience.
Measures recommended
NDMA has also recommended the following measures to reduce the impact of flash floods, according to Dawn.com.
- Assess property damage and prioritise safety during cleanup efforts.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, medications, and documents.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters; they may be deeper or faster-flowing than they appear.
- Seek medical attention for injuries or illnesses related to the flood.
- Follow instructions from emergency services and local authorities.
- Establish and maintain early warning systems to alert residents of potential floods.
- Engage volunteers for emergency response and build shelters for displaced residents.
- Provide support services such as counselling and relief assistance to affected individuals and families.
Drowning is preventable
According to the US National Weather Service, people underestimate the force and power of water. It said that many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream. It said that many of these drownings are preventable.
It has advised people to never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
