Torrential monsoon rains have swept through Pakistan’s Punjab province over the last 24 hours, claiming at least 63 lives and injuring approximately 290 people, according to authorities . Many victims were crushed by collapsing structures, drowned, or electrocuted amid the deluge.

The severe weather has prompted Rawalpindi, near Islamabad, to declare a public holiday, urging residents near rivers to evacuate as floodwaters rise. A staggering 400 mm of rain fell in Chakwal within a single day, overwhelming infrastructure and leading to helicopter and boat rescue missions.

Since the monsoon season began in late June, over 150 people have died nationwide, including numerous children, while more than 300 have been injured. Numerous highways remain shut, and travel and logistics are severely disrupted due to widespread flooding .

Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, has declared states of emergency in affected areas, mobilizing government agencies and urging strict adherence to safety protocols. The National Disaster Management Authority warned that heavy rain and flash floods are likely to persist into the weekend. Rescue teams are on high alert, while Pakistan continues grappling with increasingly unpredictable weather linked to climate change.