PMD warns of heavy rains as Pakistan monsoon deaths reach 183

Heavy rains expected across Pakistan

Pakistan is expected to receive heavy rains, thunderstorms and possible flooding from Sept. 12 to 17. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said monsoon currents are affecting the upper parts of the country.

“A westerly wave is also likely to enter the upper parts of the country and is expected to strengthen further from Sept. 14,” the PMD said in its advisory.

Punjab areas face flooding risk

Punjab’s Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) warned of rain, thunderstorms, isolated heavy showers and hailstorms in several districts. The warning covers Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang and Attock.

“Heavy rains may cause Urban flooding in low lying areas of Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Lahore,” the PDMA said. Authorities also warned of flash floods in local streams and nullahs and landslides in Murree and Galliyat.

Monsoon death toll rises to 183

The latest warning comes less than two weeks after heavy rain flooded low-lying parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The rising water level in Rawalpindi’s Nullah Lai led to evacuations, while authorities declared a local holiday and some schools in low-lying areas of Islamabad were closed.

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) figures show that 183 people have died and 515 have been injured in monsoon-related incidents between June 26 and Sept. 11. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recorded the highest number of deaths with 74, followed by Punjab with 64 and Sindh with 17.

Authorities put emergency teams on alert

The NDMA data shows that 83 children, 63 men and 37 women were among those killed. Punjab recorded the highest number of injuries, with 368 people affected by monsoon-related incidents.

Punjab authorities have ordered district administrations to keep emergency operation centers active around the clock. They have also directed officials to clear drains, place heavy machinery in vulnerable areas and keep Rescue 1122 search-and-rescue teams ready.

“Tourists and travelers are advised to remain cautious during the forecast period,” the PDMA said. Farmers have also been advised to plan crop activities according to the weather conditions.

The latest weather spell could increase the risk of urban and flash flooding in vulnerable areas. Early preparations by local authorities may help reduce damage and protect people during the heavy rains.

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