ISLAMABAD — As the monsoon season enters a dangerous new phase, Pakistan’s weather authorities have sounded the alarm over intensifying rains expected this week, amid a rising human toll from weeks of weather-related disasters.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Sunday issued a new advisory warning that the currently mild monsoon system affecting central and northern regions is likely to strengthen starting August 4. A fresh westerly weather system is also expected to hit from August 5, increasing the risk of flash flooding and landslides.
Heavy Downpours Threaten Northern and Central Pakistan
From August 5 to 7, heavy rains are forecast to lash mountainous and low-lying regions alike, with areas such as Chitral, Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Murree, and the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi at heightened risk. The PMD cautioned that overflowing streams and seasonal nullahs could trigger sudden flash floods, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), northeast Punjab, and Kashmir.
Urban flooding is also a concern for densely populated cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, and Rawalpindi, where outdated drainage infrastructure often fails under heavy rainfall.
Human Cost Mounts as Monsoon Toll Rises
Since the onset of the monsoon season on June 26, at least 299 people have lost their lives in rain-related incidents across the country, according to data from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Punjab has recorded the highest fatalities at 162, followed by KP with 69, and Sindh with 28. Other affected regions include Balochistan (20), Gilgit-Baltistan (10), Islamabad (8), and Azad Kashmir (2).
The NDMA also reported over 700 injuries nationwide, including nearly 240 children, underscoring the widespread impact of the season’s extreme weather.
Landslide Risks and Travel Warnings
In addition to flooding, landslides and mudslides pose serious threats in hilly and mountainous areas, particularly in Murree, Galliyat, KP’s upper districts, and parts of Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir. The PMD has urged travelers and tourists to avoid unnecessary journeys into vulnerable zones, warning of potential road blockages and infrastructure damage.
Climate Extremes Becoming the New Normal
This year’s monsoon comes amid a troubling pattern of increasingly erratic and extreme weather in Pakistan. The country ranks among the most climate-vulnerable globally, and the growing intensity of seasonal rains only adds to its environmental and humanitarian challenges.
In May, more than 30 people died during sudden spring storms. And in 2022, one-third of Pakistan was submerged by historic flooding that left over 1,700 dead and caused economic damages estimated at $35 billion. That catastrophe displaced millions and further strained an already struggling economy.
Urgent Call for Preparedness
Authorities are urging citizens to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and stay updated on local weather developments through the coming week. As the monsoon system intensifies, proactive disaster response and public awareness will be critical to minimizing further loss of life and damage.