Torrential monsoon rains have wreaked havoc across Pakistan, triggering flash floods, landslides, and power outages, and leaving at least seven people dead in Dera Ismail Khan (DIK).
Islamabad and Rawalpindi Paralyzed by Floodwaters
The capital region faced hours of relentless downpour, overwhelming drainage systems and turning streets into rivers. Bhara Kahu was among the hardest-hit areas, with water rushing into homes and shops, while stranded cars lined submerged roads.
Authorities were forced to open spillways at Rawal Dam to release mounting water pressure, while officials shut down popular hiking trails in the Margalla Hills — including Trails 2 through 5 and the path behind Saidpur village — to prevent accidents.
Dera Ismail Khan Suffers Deadliest Impact
In DIK, fierce winds and heavy rainfall brought down trees and electricity poles, plunging neighborhoods into darkness. Roof collapses across multiple localities claimed seven lives and injured dozens more, rescue workers confirmed.
Provincial authorities declared a state of emergency in local hospitals and mobilized rescue teams to restore power and provide relief. “The loss of life is deeply saddening,” said KP government spokesperson Faraz Mughal, adding that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is “personally monitoring” the response.
Widespread Disruption in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Beyond
Other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, and Waziristan, endured punishing rainfall. In Mardan, local officials inspected drainage efforts after streets flooded. One person died and two others were injured in a roof collapse in Jalalah, rescue teams reported.
Gilgit-Baltistan authorities issued a weather warning for the coming days, shutting schools near the Gilgit River and ordering hotels along the riverbank to close as water levels threaten to rise further.
Punjab and Azad Kashmir Face Severe Weather
The monsoon system also drenched large swaths of Punjab, with Gujrat, Kot Addu, Hafizabad, and Toba Tek Singh among the worst-hit cities. In Azad Kashmir’s Bagh district, landslides damaged homes and a mosque, though no casualties were reported. Flash floods in Nikyal and Samahni villages have heightened concerns over road safety and accessibility.
NDMA Warns of More Rainfall
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned that heavy rainfall will continue in much of the country through August 30. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and take precautionary measures.