Pakistan monsoon rains cause over 160 deaths and widespread flooding

Heavy monsoon rains across Pakistan have caused significant destruction, with the National Disaster Management Authority reporting that the death toll has surpassed 160 people since June 26. The casualties are spread across several provinces, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reporting the highest number at 67, followed by Punjab with 54.

In the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, intense rainfall has triggered urban flooding, submerged vehicles, and inundated residential areas. Water levels in Nullah Lai rose sharply, prompting authorities to activate emergency alarms and advise residents in low-lying areas to evacuate. Beyond the immediate flooding, receding waters have left behind sewage-contaminated mud and waste, leading to reports of eye, throat, and stomach-related illnesses among local communities.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued warnings for continued thunderstorms, heavy rain, and gusty winds across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. These weather patterns pose ongoing risks of flash floods, landslides in mountainous terrains, and further urban flooding in major cities including Lahore and Peshawar.