At least four people have died and 19 others were injured as heavy monsoon rains triggered building collapses and drowning incidents across Pakistan’s eastern Punjab province, authorities confirmed on Thursday. The casualties were reported over the past 24 hours as seasonal downpours swept through multiple districts, causing widespread damage to homes and infrastructure. According to the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), two of the fatalities occurred in Okara and Bahawalnagar when weakened, dilapidated structures collapsed due to the relentless rainfall.
The other two deaths were reported from Jhelum, where individuals drowned in separate incidents linked to the ongoing wet weather. Thirteen homes were also damaged, with most of the affected structures located in rural or structurally vulnerable areas. The PDMA has urged residents to exercise caution, avoid unnecessary travel, and take preventive measures as the monsoon rains are expected to continue through July 1. Financial assistance for the families of the deceased and those injured will be provided in accordance with government policies, the agency said.
In neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the PDMA has issued warnings for torrential rains and hailstorms across several districts starting Thursday evening. The districts of Chitral, Swat, Upper and Lower Dir, and Kohistan are among the areas identified as high-risk. Local administrations have been directed to implement preemptive safety measures and raise awareness among residents, particularly in mountainous regions prone to flash floods and landslides.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also issued a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) alert earlier this week, cautioning that rising temperatures and intense rainfall in northern Pakistan are putting additional pressure on glacial lakes. These conditions significantly increase the likelihood of sudden floods in the region, particularly in valleys such as Chitral and Ghizer. Pakistan remains highly vulnerable to climate change, with scientists linking recent extreme weather patterns to shifting monsoon cycles, glacial melt, and rising temperatures.
The country experienced devastating floods in 2022, which killed more than 1,700 people and caused economic losses exceeding $30 billion. The NDMA has advised residents in northern areas to avoid travel near glaciers and riverbanks and to remain vigilant in light of the current weather forecasts. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to mobilize emergency response teams as needed to address any potential disasters resulting from the ongoing monsoon season. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.