Record-Breaking Monsoon Rain Hits Lahore, Causing Widespread Disruption

Lahore experienced unprecedented monsoon showers on Thursday, receiving 350 millimeters of rain in just three hours, breaking a 44-year-old record. The heavy downpour inundated roads and streets, causing significant disruption across the city.

According to the Meteorological Department, strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are expected to bring heavy rains to the upper parts of the country from August 1 to 6, with intermittent breaks.

The torrential rain led to widespread flooding in various areas of Lahore, including Mall Road, Ferozepur Road, Model Town, Faisal Town, Lakshmi Chowk, and Anarkali. The situation was exacerbated by power outages as around 288 feeders of the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) tripped. LESCO urged consumers to remain patient, stating that teams were working to restore electricity.

In the Tajpura area, rainwater entered homes, while the Services Hospital also reported flooding, creating challenges for patients and medical staff. The heaviest rainfall was recorded at Lahore Airport with 337 millimeters, followed by Pani Wala Talab with 203 millimeters, Lakshmi Chowk with 191 millimeters, Upper Mall with 182 millimeters, Mughalpura with 173 millimeters, Tajpura with 180 millimeters, Nishtar Town with 227 millimeters, and Chowk Nakhuda with 163 millimeters.

The heavy rainfall has raised concerns about further flooding and damage as the monsoon season continues.