Torrential monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Punjab, causing widespread flooding and devastation in several districts including Jhelum, Chakwal, Lahore, and Faisalabad.
In Jhelum’s Dhok Badr area, 40 individuals trapped in flash floods were rescued by the Pakistan Army and emergency teams using helicopters. The situation at Nala Panhan has also reached critical levels.
In Chakwal, a rare cloudburst resulted in a record-breaking 423 mm of rainfall, submerging low-lying areas and flooding residential homes. In the village of Khewal, the roof of a house collapsed, killing a man and a child, while a woman and a girl sustained injuries. District authorities have declared a state of emergency and have sought assistance from the Pakistan Army.
Across Lahore and wider Punjab, relentless downpours have claimed 24 lives and left 92 injured, overwhelming drainage systems and leaving many neighborhoods inundated.
In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, 175 mm of rain caused a sharp rise in Nala Lai’s water level. At Gawalmandi and Katarian Bridge, water levels reached 15.4 and 16 feet respectively, prompting emergency sirens. Water has entered homes in low-lying areas, and WASA and Rescue 1122 teams remain on high alert. The military has been instructed to be prepared for any emergency response.
According to Rescue 1122 Punjab, various incidents related to the storm have resulted in 33 confirmed deaths and 176 injuries so far. Among the deceased, 13 were from Lahore, 8 from Faisalabad, and others from Pakpattan, Sheikhupura, Okara, Nankana Sahib, and Sahiwal.
The Meteorological Department has forecast more heavy rains in the next 48 hours, urging all relevant departments to remain on emergency footing to handle any further deterioration of the situation.
