PDMA Issues Flood Warning as Tarbela Dam Water Levels Surge in 2025
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has issued an urgent flood warning due to rising water levels at Tarbela Dam, nearing its maximum capacity of 1,550 feet. The dam, located on the Indus River, recorded a water level of 1,548 feet with an inflow of 275,000 cusecs and outflow of 235,000 cusecs, per WAPDA data. Authorities plan to open the spillway within the next 48 hours (by July 4, 2025) to manage excess water, potentially causing low to moderate flooding in the Indus River.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Dam Water Level | 1,548 feet (nearing max capacity of 1,550 feet) |
| Inflow/Outflow | Inflow: 275,000 cusecs; Outflow: 235,000 cusecs |
| Spillway Opening | Likely within 48 hours (by July 4, 2025) |
| Areas at Risk | Swabi, Haripur, Nowshera (low-lying areas along Indus River) |
| Flood Risk | Low to moderate flood in Indus River |
| Source | PDMA |
Areas at Risk
- Swabi: Low-lying areas near Tarbela Dam, including Hund village.
- Haripur: Riverbank communities along the Indus.
- Nowshera: Downstream areas vulnerable to flooding.
Key Details
- Cause: Heavy monsoon rains (20% above normal, per PMD) and glacier melt have spiked inflows, raising flood risks.
- Precautions: PDMA urges residents to relocate livestock and valuables to safer areas, avoid riverbanks, and stay vigilant.
- Actions: District administrations in Swabi, Haripur, and Nowshera are on high alert, implementing early warning systems and evacuation plans.
- Impact: Potential damage to crops, homes, and infrastructure in low-lying areas, with flash floods already reported in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
What to Do
- Residents: Monitor water levels, follow PDMA advisories, and avoid swimming or nearing the Indus River.
- Authorities: Ensure timely communication via mosques and local channels; prepare for swift evacuations.
