Lahore Faces Record Rainfall: Streets Flooded, Life Disrupted

Pakistan's cultural hub Lahore experienced record-high rainfall, resulting in at least one death and widespread flooding. The National Disaster Management Authority warns of continued downpours potentially causing flash floods and landslides. The deluge overwhelmed drainage systems, affected various parts of the city, and inundated hospitals and homes.

Pakistan's cultural city of Lahore witnessed unprecedented rainfall early Thursday, resulting in at least one fatality and significant disruption to daily life, according to officials.

The National Disaster Management Authority reported that the rain, which began before dawn, is forecasted to persist intermittently for the next week, raising concerns about potential flash flooding and landslides.

Heavy monsoon rains also struck Islamabad and other regions within Pakistan. In Lahore, the downpour was so severe that it inundated numerous streets and even penetrated wards in the Jinnah and Services hospitals, complicating patient care.

Authorities confirmed one death due to electrocution in the Nishat Colony neighborhood. Record-breaking rainfall in some areas reached 353 millimeters (14 inches) in just a few hours, surpassing a 44-year-old record, as reported by the water and sanitation agency.

The torrential rain quickly overwhelmed drainage infrastructure, flooding residential zones and entering homes. The monsoon has returned while Pakistan is still recovering from the catastrophic 2022 floods, which impacted 33 million people and resulted in 1,739 deaths. Despite the ongoing challenge, meteorologists predict less heavy rainfall this year compared to last year.

Pakistan experienced its wettest April since 1961, with rainfall more than doubling the monthly average. Experts attribute these unusual monsoon patterns to climate change.

(With inputs from agencies.)