At least 104 people have lost their lives across Pakistan due to torrential monsoon rains and flash floods since June 26, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), as the country braces for further downpours and potential flooding in the days ahead.

In its latest situation report, the NDMA revealed that Punjab has reported the highest number of rain-related deaths at 39, followed by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) with 31, Sindh with 17, Balochistan with 16, and Azad Kashmir with one fatality.

The overall death toll includes 49 children, 37 men, and 18 women, highlighting the severe toll the seasonal rains have taken on vulnerable populations. In addition, at least 200 people have been injured, including 76 children, 78 men, and 46 women.

The heavy rains have also caused widespread damage to infrastructure and homes. Since June 26, a total of 413 houses have been damaged across the country, with KP reporting the highest number at 146, followed by Sindh (86), Punjab (54), Balochistan (52), Azad Kashmir (45), and Gilgit-Baltistan (30).

Livestock losses have also been significant. Sindh reported the highest animal casualties at 58, followed by KP (43), Punjab (7), and Azad Kashmir (3).

In response to the worsening conditions, the NDMA issued a fresh weather advisory on Saturday, warning of more heavy rainfall and the risk of flash floods in various regions of Punjab, KP, and Balochistan from July 12 to July 17.

Provincial administrations have been urged to ensure emergency response readiness, including the deployment of rescue teams, availability of relief machinery, and clearing of drainage systems to mitigate urban flooding.

The advisory also warned tourists to avoid high-altitude and landslide-prone areas, and called on residents in vulnerable regions to secure personal belongings, safeguard livestock, and stock up on essential supplies.

With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistan is among the world’s most climate-vulnerable countries. The current monsoon season serves as another reminder of the growing threat. In 2022, catastrophic floods caused by record-breaking rains and glacial melt affected 33 million people and left over 1,700 dead, prompting a national emergency.

The NDMA continues to monitor the evolving weather situation and has urged the public to stay informed through official advisories. (ILKHA)