Pakistan braces for more monsoon rains as death toll climbs to 299

The death toll from ongoing monsoon rains across Pakistan has risen to 299, including 140 children, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

The season, which began in late June, has caused extensive damage and displacement in several parts of the country.

State-run PTV News quoted the NDMA on Sunday, saying that 715 people have also been injured in rain-related incidents. Of those injured, 239 are children, 204 are women, and 272 are men.

The NDMA reported that heavy rains and flash floods have led to the complete destruction of 562 houses and partial damage to another 1,114, bringing the total number of affected homes to 1,676. Additionally, 428 livestock have perished during the deluge.

Rescue and relief operations are ongoing, with 2,880 individuals evacuated from affected areas so far. The NDMA has distributed over 13,000 relief items, including tents, blankets, food packs, hygiene kits, and de-watering pumps.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rain in the coming week, warning of possible urban flooding. Rain, wind, and thunderstorms are expected from August 4 to 7 in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Islamabad, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Balochistan may experience isolated showers in its northeastern and southern regions on August 6, while Sindh is expected to remain mostly hot and humid, with light rain in coastal areas.