As intense monsoon rains continue to batter parts of Pakistan, the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued an alert for urban flooding in major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala. The warning follows heavy rainfall in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, where emergency measures have already been imposed.
According to PDMA Director General, several areas Kasur, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, and adjoining districts are expected to receive more rainfall in the next 24 hours. Authorities also raised concerns over potential flooding in the Chenab, Jhelum, and Ravi Rivers, warning nearby communities to remain vigilant as the monsoon spell is forecast to continue until July 31.
In Rawalpindi, over 80mm of rainfall was recorded, prompting a rain emergency, according to Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Managing Director. Specific measurements include 30mm in Golra and 32mm in Bokra, while Islamabad’s Saidpur received 90mm of rain in the latest spell.
Monsoon Death Toll Rises to 288
Tragically, seven more deaths have been reported in the past 24 hours due to rain-related incidents, bringing the national monsoon death toll to 288, with 690 people injured, as per the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
Provincial breakdown of fatalities:
Punjab: 157 deaths, 549 injuries (6 deaths, 14 injuries in the last 24 hours)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): 64 deaths, 80 injuries (1 new death)
Sindh: 20 deaths, 40 injuries (1 new death)
Balochistan: 20 deaths, 4 injuries
Gilgit-Baltistan: 9 deaths, 9 injuries
Islamabad Capital Territory: 8 deaths, 3 injuries
Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK): 2 deaths, 10 injuries
Of the 288 fatalities, 101 were men, 51 women, and a concerning 136 children. The injured include 262 men, 197 women, and 231 children.
Authorities urge residents in vulnerable areas to avoid unnecessary travel, remain updated through official advisories, and take all necessary safety precautions amid ongoing weather hazards.
