Pakistan: How Many More Lives Will Be Lost as Rains Devastate the Country?
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Synopsis
The ongoing torrential rains in Pakistan have claimed over 250 lives, leaving many injured and prompting major flood alerts. With severe weather expected to continue, authorities are on high alert, urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid dangerous areas. As the nation grapples with this crisis, the human cost continues to rise.
Key Takeaways
- Death toll reaches 252 due to ongoing rains.
- Nearly 611 injuries reported amidst the disaster.
- High alert issued as Tarbela Dam nears capacity.
- Flood emergency response units activated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
- Authorities warn of potential urban flooding in multiple cities.
Islamabad, July 23 (NationPress) - As relentless rainfall continues to cause destruction, the death toll in Pakistan has risen by 10 in the last 24 hours, totaling 252 lives lost since the monsoon season began. Reports indicate that nearly 611 individuals have sustained injuries due to the severe rains, catastrophic floods, and storms that have impacted the nation, as reported by 'The Express Tribune'.
According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), fatalities were reported across various regions: four in Punjab, four in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and two in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan. This latest count reflects a worrying rise from the previously reported 242 deaths.
The highest fatalities occurred in Punjab with 139 deaths, followed by 60 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Other regions affected include Sindh with 24 fatalities and Balochistan with 16 deaths.
Tragically, six individuals, including four children, were swept away by floods in Islamabad. In total, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan reported five fatalities, and two deaths were recorded in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The NDMA reported that the deceased include 121 children, 85 men, and 46 women.
The administration of the Tarbela Dam has issued a high alert as a significant flood wave approaches, with the water level nearing its capacity of 1550 feet at 1530 feet.
In response to the worsening conditions, the Tourism Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has established a flood emergency response unit in tourist hotspots, following directives from Advisor Zahid Chanzeb. Emergency units have been activated in Malakand, Hazara, and Peshawar divisions, and employee leaves have been canceled. The tourist police and helpline 1422 are operational to assist affected individuals. Authorities have advised that rainfall is expected to continue until July 25, urging caution and avoidance of flood-prone areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released an advisory for July 23 and 24, cautioning that heavy rainfall may lead to flash floods in local waterways across Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Abbottabad, Buner, Charsadda, Nowshera, Dera Ghazi Khan’s hill torrents, Swabi, Mardan, Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, northeast Punjab, and PoK.
The Met office has raised concerns about potential urban flooding in Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Nowshera, Okara, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Gujranwala due to heavy rainfall overwhelming drainage systems. Local authorities are monitoring low-lying areas for possible urban flooding, especially as drainage systems are under stress from increased moisture and seasonal runoff.
The risk of landslides and mudslides remains heightened in mountainous regions including Murree, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PoK, Galliyat, and PoGB. PMD officials have advised against non-essential travel in these areas during the forecast period.
Forecasts for Wednesday and Thursday predict rain, wind, and thunderstorms across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PoK, Islamabad, Punjab, PoGB, and northeast Balochistan, with particularly heavy rainfall anticipated in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, PoGB, the Potohar region, northeast Punjab, and PoK.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this unfolding tragedy with empathy and clarity. The nation's response to the ongoing crisis must be swift and comprehensive. We stand with the people of Pakistan during this challenging time, emphasizing the need for solidarity and support for those affected. Our commitment is to inform and guide the public through this disaster.
NationPress
24/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current death toll from the rains in Pakistan?
The death toll has risen to 252 as of July 23, with 10 additional fatalities reported in the past 24 hours.
How many people have been injured due to the floods?
Approximately 611 individuals have sustained injuries as a result of the torrential rains and flooding.
Which regions in Pakistan are most affected by the rains?
The most affected regions include Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan.
What precautions are authorities advising?
Authorities are urging residents to avoid flood-prone areas and are closely monitoring low-lying regions for potential urban flooding.
When is the heavy rainfall expected to continue?
Heavy rainfall is expected to persist until July 25, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
