Relentless monsoon rains continue to wreak havoc across Pakistan, triggering flash floods, landslides, and severe disruptions in numerous regions. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that the ongoing spell of heavy downpours will persist for at least another two days, with a more intense weather system forecast to arrive early next week.

Widespread Destruction from North to South

The impact of the monsoon has been severe, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, northeast and central Punjab, and parts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Urban flooding, blocked roads, collapsed homes, and isolated villages are becoming all too common as weather conditions worsen.

In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, heavy early morning rain caused Korang Nullah to overflow. A motorcyclist named Mohsin was swept away in the rushing waters, and rescue teams have yet to locate him. Low-lying areas near the drain also suffered major flooding, leaving streets covered in thick mud and impassable for residents.

In Muzaffarabad, a devastating cloudburst flattened homes and swept away livestock. The Leepa Valley has been cut off due to landslides that blocked key access routes, while Sarai Naimat Khan in Haripur reported extensive road damage.

Northern Pakistan Faces Landslides and Flooding

Further north, Diamer has seen flash floods destroy vital infrastructure, including a key bridge in Batoga and Khanar, disrupting transport and damaging farmland and cattle enclosures. Rivers in Abbottabad and canals in Bhimbher and Neelum Valley have overflowed, submerging nearby communities.

The Gilgit-Baltistan region, already under pressure from melting glaciers, has been put on high alert. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned of flooding in rivers and streams including Hunza, Khunjerab, and Shegar, urging both residents and tourists to steer clear of high-risk areas.

Urban Centers Also Affected

Monsoon rains haven’t spared the plains either. Cities such as Sialkot, Jhelum, Attock, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Hassan Abdal, Daska, and Ferozwala are battling waterlogging and inadequate drainage, affecting both residential areas and transport networks.

In Lahore, 23mm of rain was recorded, while Khanewal topped Punjab’s rainfall chart with 51mm, followed by Sahiwal (44mm), Rawalpindi (42mm), and Murree (41mm). Islamabad recorded 36mm of rainfall. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balakot received 40mm, Malam Jabba 28mm, and Kakul 13mm. Bagrot in Gilgit-Baltistan reported 7mm.

Precautionary Measures and Official Warnings

With rains forecast to continue through July 13, authorities are on high alert. Section 144 has been imposed around rivers, canals, and other vulnerable water bodies to prevent accidents. Citizens have been strongly advised to avoid bathing or crossing swollen streams and to avoid staying in mud houses or structurally weak buildings.

PDMA Punjab’s Director General, Irfan Ali Kathia, urged people to remain vigilant:

“We are expecting more heavy rainfall within the next 24 hours. People must avoid traveling unnecessarily in flood-prone or hilly areas.”

NDMA officials reiterated warnings about glacial melting and landslides, particularly in Skardu, Astore, Hunza, Ganche, and Neelum Valley, noting that the combination of sustained rainfall and extreme heat has made the terrain highly unstable.

A Monsoon Double-Edged Sword

While the rainfall has brought some relief from Pakistan’s scorching summer temperatures, its destructive impact far outweighs the comfort it offers. Authorities are urging citizens to remain cautious and to follow emergency advisories as the country continues to grapple with this prolonged and destructive monsoon season.