Media Foundation360 paid a visit to the Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) in Lahore on 16th, oct 2023. This division, a specialized unit within the PMD, holds a crucial role in forecasting and issuing flood warnings to relevant authorities. FFD acquires hydro-meteorological data from various national and international sources, analyzes it, and produces weather and flood forecasts and warnings. These forecasts and warnings are then disseminated to federal and provincial organizations, as well as electronic and print media through various channels. Additionally, this information is made available on the FFD website.
Flood forecasting is a significant tool in reducing vulnerabilities and flood risks, playing a vital role in the strategy of “living with floods” and contributing to national sustainable development. The Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) is dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of meteorological and hydrological services to provide timely and precise products and services required for flood forecasting and warning. They also collaborate with disaster management teams involved in flood emergency preparedness and response. During our visit, we had the opportunity to meet with the Director-General Aslam Abbas of the Pakistan Meteorological Department Flood Forecasting Division (FFD) in Lahore