Deadly Downpours Hit Dera Ismail Khan, Leave Dozens Injured
DERA ISMAIL KHAN: At least 10 people lost their lives and more than 60 others were injured after severe monsoon rains and powerful winds swept through Dera Ismail Khan on Sunday, causing widespread destruction. Roof collapses, fallen trees, and toppled electricity poles plunged the city into darkness, while many low-lying areas were left submerged.
According to rescue officials, most casualties occurred due to collapsing roofs in various neighborhoods. Seven people died instantly in separate incidents, while dozens sustained injuries, many of them critical. Several homes were completely destroyed, and the affected areas are currently facing prolonged power outages and a breakdown of basic services.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government spokesperson Faraz Mughal confirmed the fatalities and said that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has directed local authorities to remain on high alert. An emergency was declared in hospitals across the district to ensure timely medical aid to those injured.
Flash Floods Disrupt Life in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Northern Regions
In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, hours-long torrential rain triggered flash floods, particularly impacting Bhara Kahu, where water entered homes and businesses, and vehicles were left stranded. To manage rising water levels, authorities opened the spillways of Rawal Dam.
For public safety, Margalla Hills hiking trails — including Trails 2, 3, 4, 5, and the Saidpur village route — were closed due to increased risk of landslides and flash flooding. Relief teams are actively engaged in restoration efforts, and the capital administration has advised the public to stay indoors during heavy rainfall.
Other cities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, and North and South Waziristan, also experienced heavy rainfall. In Mardan, a house roof collapsed in Jalalah, resulting in one death and two injuries. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
Monsoon Mayhem in Punjab, GB, and Azad Kashmir
Punjab towns such as Gujrat, Gojra, Kamalia, Toba Tek Singh, Kot Addu, Hafizabad, and Chichawatni reported intense rainfall that led to urban flooding and disrupted daily life. Meanwhile, in Gilgit-Baltistan, the local administration warned of further rain starting Saturday. As a precaution, hotels along the Gilgit River were closed, and schools near flood-prone areas will remain shut on Monday.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir’s Bagh district, heavy rain-induced landslides damaged two homes and a mosque, though no casualties were reported. Flash floods also hit Samahni and surrounding areas, leaving rural communities cut off.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has warned that the country could face more intense monsoon activity until at least August 30. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.
Faraz Mughal reiterated that “rescue and power restoration teams are on the ground,” adding that the KP chief minister is personally monitoring the situation. He assured continued government support for the affected populations.
