Severe monsoon rains and flash floods have taken a serious toll across Pakistan, with at least 79 people reported dead and 140 injured over the past 12 days, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
The breakdown of casualties shows 29 deaths in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 24 in Punjab, 15 in Sindh, and 11 in Balochistan.
Among the injured are 57 children, 48 men and 35 women. The severe weather has also led to the complete destruction of 66 homes, while another 123 houses have been partially damaged as floodwaters swept through several areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department had earlier cautioned about the possibility of above-average monsoon rainfall this season, warning of potential urban flooding and landslides in areas known to be at risk.
In Punjab, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority noted that Sheikhupura recorded the highest rainfall at 48mm, followed by Lahore at 40mm. Other cities such as Gujranwala, Murree, and Faisalabad also experienced showers, though to a lesser extent.
PDMA Punjab’s Director General Irfan Ali Kathia warned that the ongoing monsoon spell is likely to continue until July 10. He urged the public to stay alert, avoid non-essential travel during heavy rains, and follow guidance issued by relevant authorities.
Rescue teams have been stationed in vulnerable regions, while district administrations have been directed to make sure that emergency supplies, medical kits, and drainage equipment are in place.
Officials have also raised alarms over the pressure on aging infrastructure in urban centers, especially cities like Lahore and Karachi, where drainage systems often fail to cope with such heavy rainfall.