At least 111 people, including 53 children, have tragically lost their lives due to the relentless monsoon rains in Pakistan since late June, as reported by the country’s National Disaster Management Authority.
This report, highlighted by AFP, underscores the rising toll from the seasonal downpours and the escalating risks associated with extreme weather.
Data gathered between June 26 and July 14 reveals that electrocution has been the leading cause of these fatalities. The province of Punjab, which is the most populated region in Pakistan, has seen the highest number of casualties.
More Flooding on the Horizon
Pakistan’s national meteorological department has issued new warnings for heavy rainfall in the northern and eastern parts of the country. Forecasts indicate that flash floods, landslides, and damage to infrastructure from strong winds are likely in the days ahead.
The monsoon season typically accounts for 70–80% of South Asia’s annual rainfall, starting in India in early June and reaching Pakistan by the end of the month, continuing through September. While these rains are crucial for agriculture and food security in the region, they often bring devastating consequences, such as floods, landslides, and collapsed buildings.
Climate Change Amplifies Weather Extremes
South Asia is experiencing rapid warming, and Pakistan stands out as one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. In recent years, the region has faced increasingly unpredictable and severe weather patterns, leaving communities struggling to bounce back.
In 2022, monsoon rains inundated nearly one-third of Pakistan, resulting in over 1,700 deaths and widespread destruction some areas are still grappling with the aftermath. Just this past May, violent storms and hail claimed at least 32 lives in the country.
With each passing year, the effects of climate change become harder to overlook. Experts caution that without robust strategies for mitigation and adaptation, the impact on lives and infrastructure will only continue to escalate.
