PMD Warns of Flash Flooding as Monsoon Rains Kill 44
The PDMA's warnings and the government's support come as a relief to the affected areas, but the situation remains dire, with the death toll expected to rise as the rains continue. The focus now shifts to providing aid and support to those affected and taking measures to prevent further casualties.
Torrential monsoon rains have caused widespread destruction in Punjab, resulting in at least 44 deaths and hundreds of injuries, with the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warning of potential flash flooding and urban flooding threats in major cities.
The primary causes of the casualties were structural collapses and electrocution, with most incidents occurring in Lahore, Okara, Faisalabad, and surrounding districts. In Lahore, 16 people were killed and six severely injured as three rooftops caved in, while in Okara, at least seven people, including five children, were killed due to collapsing structures, electrocution, and one drowning incident.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a flood warning for the Jhelum River, expecting exceptionally high flooding ranging between 350,000 to 450,000 cusecs of water upstream at Mangla. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has directed citizens to take precautionary measures, including avoiding old mud houses and keeping children away from electric wires and low-lying areas.
The Punjab government has pledged full support to protect lives and livestock as rains continue to lash the province. Authorities have urged citizens to stay informed via official alerts and cooperate with administrative staff in case of emergency evacuations. This year, 77 civilians have been killed and 214 injured due to monsoon rains, with 74 houses affected and 6 livestock killed.
As the monsoon rains are expected to continue until July 17, the PDMA has forecast more rains in several divisions, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Multan, warning of heavy rain and wind in several districts. Citizens are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of their loved ones.