As of June 24, monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Pakistan, resulting in a tragic loss of at least 150 lives, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The regions hit hardest by these weather-related incidents include Punjab, with 66 fatalities, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with 41 deaths, Sindh with 15, Balochistan with 6, Islamabad with 11, AJK with 6, and Gilgit-Baltistan reporting 5 deaths.
The impact of the rains has been far-reaching, with more than 233 people injured and 468 houses damaged in various incidents caused by the heavy downpours and flooding.
Adding to the distress, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warns that a fresh westerly wave is expected to enter the upper parts of the country, continuing until July 30. The upcoming monsoon spell may bring rainfall with thunderstorms to Islamabad, while South Punjab, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan are likely to experience thunderstorms and rain, with heavy downpours expected in southeast Balochistan and South Punjab. Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir may witness sporadic downpours in certain areas, and Upper Sindh may also receive some rainfall.
However, along with the anticipation of much-needed precipitation, there is a growing concern of potential flooding in low-lying areas and a heightened risk of landslides in hilly regions, as well as flash floods in hill torrents due to the intensity of the upcoming heavy rains.
As the situation remains critical, authorities are urging residents to take precautionary measures and remain vigilant during this weather spell to mitigate the impact of the monsoon rains and ensure the safety of communities across Pakistan.
