New SMS Alerts Will Warn You If Floods Are Coming

Jul 10, 2025 - 17:48
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New SMS Alerts Will Warn You If Floods Are Coming

In a major step towards enhancing disaster preparedness, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), in collaboration with leading mobile operators, has launched a new SMS alert system to warn citizens of impending floods and heavy rainfall across the country.

The initiative comes at a critical time as Pakistan enters the peak of its monsoon season, with multiple regions already on high alert due to rising water levels and storm forecasts.

How the System Works

The newly launched SMS alert system is designed to send real-time notifications to mobile phone users living in areas vulnerable to floods.

Here's how it works:

  • Detection: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) monitors rainfall and flood indicators through advanced forecasting models.

  • Coordination: Once flood risks are identified, the NDMA works with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to activate the alert system.

  • Delivery: Mobile operators like Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone send location-based SMS alerts to subscribers in at-risk areas.

The messages contain critical information such as flood warnings, evacuation guidance, emergency contacts, and safety measures.

First Wave of Alerts Already Sent

According to NDMA officials, the first round of flood alerts was issued earlier this week to residents of low-lying areas near rivers in Punjab and Sindh, where heavy rainfall was expected between July 8–12.

"People in these areas received alerts in Urdu and English, advising them to prepare for possible flooding and move to safer ground if needed," said an NDMA spokesperson.

Why This System Matters

Over the past decade, Pakistan has witnessed deadly floods that have claimed thousands of lives and caused billions in damages. The devastating floods of 2022 affected more than 33 million people.

This SMS system aims to minimize loss of life by ensuring that even people without internet or television access can receive timely warnings directly on their phones.

“Every life matters. This alert system gives people a fighting chance to move to safety before it’s too late,” said NDMA Chairman Lt. Gen. Inam Haider Malik.

Areas Currently Under Flood Risk

As of today, flood alerts are being closely monitored in the following regions:

  • Southern Punjab (Multan, D.G. Khan, Muzaffargarh)

  • Northern Sindh (Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad)

  • Parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Swat, Nowshera)

  • Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir

Citizens in these regions are strongly advised to stay alert, avoid traveling near rivers or canals, and follow any evacuation instructions.

How Citizens Should Respond

If you receive a flood alert SMS:

  • Pack important items (ID cards, medicine, basic clothes)

  • Call the emergency helpline (NDMA: 1700 or 1122)

  • Move to designated flood shelters or higher ground

  • Stay connected through radio or TV for updates

NDMA confirmed that this system will continue to operate throughout the entire monsoon season (July–September) and may be expanded to other types of natural disasters in the future, including earthquakes and landslides.

The move has been largely welcomed by citizens and social media users, who praised the system for being “long overdue.This is the kind of technology we need. I live near the river and now I feel safer knowing I’ll be warned in time,” said Faizan Ali, a resident of Muzaffargarh.

The launch of SMS flood alerts marks a major milestone in Pakistan's disaster management system. By using mobile technology to reach millions, authorities hope to reduce panic, save lives, and ensure early evacuation in the face of growing climate risks.

As monsoon season intensifies, stay alert, take warnings seriously, and prioritize safety.


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