Cloudburst brings 425mm rainfall in Chakwal, flood emergency declared

A devastating cloudburst in Punjab's Chakwal city brought a staggering 425 millimetres of rainfall, paralyzing daily life and prompting authorities to declare a flood emergency.

According to details, the intense monsoon downpour wreaked havoc across Jhelum and Chakwal, submerging dozens of villages under floodwaters. In Chakwal, areas such as Talagang, Lawa, Kallar Kahar, and Choa Saidan Shah were severely affected, with normal life coming to a standstill.

The torrential rain caused flash flooding in various low-lying areas, cutting off several villages from the district headquarters.

Rainfall was measured at 325mm in Wahali Zer (Kallar Kahar) and 310mm in Choa Saidan Shah.

The surge in water levels led to the collapse of the Panwal Dam embankment, flooding brick kilns and sweeping away several vehicles.

While two individuals were rescued, search efforts are underway for a third person still missing.

In the town of Khewal, a house collapse caused by heavy rains claimed the lives of a father and son, while the wife and another child sustained injuries and were shifted to a hospital.

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The intense rainfall rendered the Dohman Bridge unusable and damaged several connecting roads, isolating many rural settlements from Chakwal city.

Deputy Commissioner Sarah Hayat declared a flood emergency in Chakwal and Talagang, instructing all department heads to remain available 24/7 and to ensure immediate relief for the affected population.

Local authorities have requested assistance from the Pakistan Army, while rescue operations are ongoing.

The Meteorological Department has forecast further rainfall, prompting officials to advise citizens to exercise caution.