Pakistan Flood Emergency: How to Protect Your Car from Severe Flood Damage?

Pakistan is currently experiencing a critical flood situation, with the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers rising to extremely high to exceptionally high flood levels. Water discharges have surged into the hundreds of thousands of cusecs, forcing authorities to evacuate thousands of people from Punjab’s flood-hit districts.

Warnings remain in place for Qadirabad, Shahdara, and other low-lying regions as floodwaters threaten homes, land, crops, and infrastructure. Reports confirm that India has released additional water from upstream dams, worsening the situation downstream.

As of August 28, 2025 (1:05 PM update):

• Chenab River – ~7,000 m³/s, above extreme flood level
• Sutlej River – ~3,000 m³/s, between danger and extreme thresholds
• Ravi River – ~5,238 m³/s (185,000 cusecs), far beyond extreme flood level

Why Car Protection is Critical?

For many Pakistanis, a car is not just transportation — it’s an investment purchased through years of savings. Unfortunately, floodwater can cause severe and often irreversible damage to interiors, upholstery, wiring, and engines.

Modern vehicles are especially vulnerable due to their reliance on sensitive electronics. Even shallow water can stall an engine, while attempts to restart a flooded car may lead to hydrolock, a condition that can destroy the engine.

To make matters worse, most standard car insurance policies in Pakistan do not cover flood damage, as it is considered an “Act of God.” Unless drivers have opted for comprehensive coverage, repair or replacement costs may fall entirely on them.

Preventive Steps: How to Protect Your Vehicle

If floods threaten your area, remember: prevention is better than repair.

Move to higher ground early – Relocate your car to a multi-story parking lot or elevated land.
Seal the car – Roll up windows tightly and disconnect the battery.
Avoid risky areas – Do not park near drains, canals, or riverbanks.
Raise the car slightly – Use bricks, ramps, or blocks to elevate it.
Cover and remove valuables – Protect electronics and remove documents.
Document everything – Take photos/videos to support insurance claims.

Safety Checklist: Do’s & Don’ts

Do’s

• Keep an emergency kit and spare keys ready.
• Follow NDMA/PDMA alerts and safe route updates.
• Ensure all seals and windows are tightly closed.

Don’ts

• Don’t drive through floodwater (2 feet can sweep away most cars).
• Don’t restart a flooded car (risk of engine hydrolock).
• Don’t rely on brakes immediately after water exposure — test gently first.

After the Flood: What to Do

If your car was submerged:

• Do not start it — tow it to a trusted workshop.
• Check and replace fluids (oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid).
• Replace air filters and inspect all electrical systems.
• Disinfect interiors quickly to prevent mold and health hazards.

Final Word

Floods are natural disasters that cannot always be prevented, but preparation can help car owners minimize losses. With proactive measures, early relocation, and proper post-flood care, Pakistanis can reduce the risk of devastating vehicle damage during this emergency.

Afsheen Gohar

Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.