Authorities in Pakistan have declared a red alert nationwide as intense monsoon rains continue, causing flash floods, landslides, and rising river levels across several regions.
The heavy downpour—expected to persist through July 25—has already led to at least 13 deaths and dozens of injuries in the past 24 hours, as per official reports.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasts ongoing rain and thunderstorms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Balochistan. Flash floods are likely in mountainous areas including Chitral, Swat, Dir, and Mansehra. Urban flooding is also a concern for cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Peshawar.
Since June 26, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported 216 deaths, 582 injuries, and over 770 houses destroyed due to rain-related incidents.
Punjab is currently experiencing its fourth spell of monsoon rains. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued warnings for severe weather in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, and Gujrat, with southern areas like Multan and Bahawalpur also at risk.
Water levels in key rivers, including the Indus, Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab, have surged. The Indus at Taunsa is already at a medium flood level, crossing 420,000 cusecs. Low flooding is ongoing at Tarbela, Kalabagh, and Chashma.
Emergency services, including Rescue 1122 and health teams, have been stationed in flood-prone zones. Boats and medical aid stations are ready, particularly in Lahore’s Shahdara area, where the Ravi’s water level has risen dangerously.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said all districts are on alert. Section 144 has been enforced around rivers to restrict public access. Teams with machinery have been deployed to vulnerable drainage points for rapid response.
Meanwhile, the Met Office rejected social media rumors of a “cloudburst” in Chakwal on July 17. It clarified that rainfall was 142.2 mm—not 423 mm—and no cloudburst was detected.
The PMD cautioned against misinformation, stressing that false news causes unnecessary panic.
Residents are urged to avoid flood zones and follow safety instructions. Rainfall is expected to continue until at least July 26, with the potential for more disruption.
Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider visited affected parts of Chakwal, assuring victims of full support from the government. He expressed sympathy for the losses and emphasized a commitment to complete rehabilitation. During his visit to Dohman, he inspected severe damage and appealed for national solidarity in relief efforts.
Read more: Monsoon Rains Cause Flooding and Landslides in Pakistan
