The Meteorological Department has predicted a new spell of rains across the country starting August 23, raising concerns of urban flooding and landslides.

Meanwhile, Karachi continues to grapple with the aftermath of destructive tornadoes and heavy rains that caused massive infrastructure damage, business losses, and multiple casualties.

Rain forecast across Pakistan

According to the Meteorological Department:

August 23–27: Rain with thundershowers in central and upper parts of Pakistan, including Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
August 23–26: Showers expected in Sindh and Balochistan.
August 27–29: Heavy rains likely in Sindh and eastern/southern Balochistan.

Authorities have warned of possible urban flooding in cities and landslides in hilly areas, especially in central Punjab and northern regions.

Karachi tornadoes leave trail of destruction

In Karachi, torrential rains wreaked havoc:

Drainage system collapse: Overflowing drains and sewers polluted streets.
Infrastructure damage: Roads, underpasses, and low-lying areas remained waterlogged for days.
Economic losses: Traders reported Rs15 billion in losses due to suspension of commercial activities.
Loss of lives: At least 17 people died in various rain-related accidents.

Although water has been cleared from major highways, residential neighbourhoods and marketplaces are still inundated.

Citizens struggle amid power outages

Many areas of Karachi remain without electricity, despite K-Electric’s claims that supply continues as usual across the city. Residents have criticized the city administration for failing to upgrade the drainage and power systems, which collapse every monsoon season.

PDMA Khyber Pakhtunkhwa damage report

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has released the latest report on the devastation caused by recent rains and flash floods across various districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to the report, 393 people have lost their lives, while 190 others have been injured in rain- and flood-related incidents so far. Among the deceased are 300 men, 53 women, and 40 children, while the injured include 145 men, 27 women, and 18 children.

The floods have also caused widespread destruction to homes, with a total of 1,618 houses damaged. Of these, 1,185 were partially damaged, while 433 houses were completely destroyed. The highest number of casualties was reported in Buner, where 234 people have died, followed by Swabi with 42 deaths.

The PDMA added that district administrations in the affected areas have been instructed to intensify relief efforts and ensure immediate assistance to the victims.