Monsoon Rains Cause Landslides and Flooding Across Pakistan

Pakistan is preparing for another phase of monsoon rains starting July 29, as heavy downpours and landslides have already created havoc in several areas, including blocking parts of the Fairy Meadows Road in Chilas.

Road Closures and Rescue Operations in Chilas

Due to severe downpours, multiple sections of the Fairy Meadows Road are impassable due to landslides. Inclement weather has also led to the suspension of aerial operations in the region.

NDMA Response

The deputy commissioner of Chilas stated that the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has sent teams to the affected area. Search operations for individuals who have gone missing are being carried out collaboratively by the Pakistan Army and other relevant organizations.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Advisory

The tourism department in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued a warning about potential flash floods in well-known tourist destinations from July 21-29. Tourists are strongly encouraged to avoid any unnecessary travel and to contact the tourism helpline at 1422 for guidance before visiting any location.

Tourist Evacuation at Lake Saif-ul-Malook

The Kaghan Development Authority successfully rescued more than 500 tourists who were stranded after a cloudburst caused a landslide, blocking the road to Lake Saif-ul-Malook. Local authorities reported that over 117 vehicles had been trapped, but all tourists were safely evacuated.

Tragedy in Balochistan

Tragically, in Balochistan’s Duki district, four children lost their lives after drowning in a stream on Friday. This incident brings the total number of deaths in the province to 20 since the monsoon season began. The deceased include 11 children, 5 men, and 4 women. According to the PDMA, at least 66 houses have sustained damage across the region since June 28, and eight individuals have been injured.

Weather Forecast and Warnings

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted another period of monsoon rains across the country from July 28-31. Provincial and district authorities have been urged to implement immediate precautionary measures. The Met Office has noted that weak monsoon currents are still impacting the upper and central regions of the country. These currents are expected to strengthen as a new westerly system approaches on July 29. Many areas are expected to experience widespread rainfall, along with occasional heavy showers and thunderstorms.

Regional Rainfall Predictions
  • Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan: Rainfall is expected to continue until July 31 in areas such as Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Hunza, and Skardu.
  • Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Regions including Swat, Dir, Mansehra, and Peshawar are likely to receive rain from July 28 to 31.
  • Punjab and Islamabad: Heavy showers are anticipated in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Murree, and Galiyat. Southern Punjab, including Multan and Bahawalpur, will likely experience rainfall between July 29-31.
  • Balochistan: The northeastern and southern parts of the province will experience thundershowers and isolated heavy rainfall starting July 29, with areas such as Quetta, Zhob, Khuzdar, and Lasbela expected to be affected.
  • Sindh: Predominantly hot and humid conditions will persist, but areas like Dadu, Tharparkar, and Sukkur may receive rain on July 30 and 31.
Advisories and Preparedness

The PMD has issued warnings regarding potential flash floods in the hilly streams of KP, northeast Balochistan, Punjab, and Kashmir. Urban flooding is also possible in low-lying areas of Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Sialkot. Landslides and mudslides may cause disruptions in Murree, Galiyat, Gilgit-Baltistan, and other mountainous regions.

Rescue, civil defence, and municipal departments have been directed to maintain full readiness, especially in areas prone to landslides and locations with vulnerable housing. The public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel, flooded roads, and any exposed electrical infrastructure.