Pakistan is expected to experience the fourth spell of monsoon rains starting July 21, according to the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The authority has issued an early warning, advising both the public and district administrations to remain on high alert.
In recent days, the Pothohar region witnessed severe rainfall, triggering flood-like conditions that led to large-scale rescue operations. Hundreds of people were evacuated to safety. According to the Director General of PDMA, both civil authorities and army personnel actively participated in the rescue efforts, successfully relocating around 1,000 individuals.
In Jhelum, 398 people trapped in floodwaters were rescued. Of these, 160 were airlifted by helicopters, while 174 were rescued by the district administration and 64 by army personnel.
In Chakwal, 209 people were evacuated, including 27 by helicopter. In Rawalpindi, the district administration rescued 450 people, and 6 individuals were airlifted from the Nullah Lai.
PDMA’s report also highlighted that 178 people have died and 491 were injured during the recent monsoon rains across the region — figures that have raised serious concerns.
According to the Meteorological Department, rainfall is expected today in Azad Kashmir, Eastern Punjab, Pothohar region, and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Rain is also likely in parts of southern Balochistan, southern Punjab, and southeastern Sindh.
Both PDMA and the Meteorological Department have urged citizens to take necessary precautions, avoid going near rivers and streams, and immediately contact rescue services in case of emergencies.
For related rain alerts issued for Islamabad and Punjab by NDMA, click here
