Monsoon rains break 44-year record in Lahore

Record-breaking rainfall in provincial capital led to widespread flooding and power outages

Heavy monsoon showers drenched Lahore on Thursday, recording 350 millimetres of rain in just three hours and breaking a 44-year-old record.

The downpour flooded streets, homes, and disrupted electricity supply across the city.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are expected to bring torrential rains to upper parts of the country from August 1 to 6, with intermittent breaks.

Lahore's rainfall led to significant flooding in areas such as Mall Road, Ferozepur Road, Model Town, Faisal Town, Lakshmi Chowk, and Anarkali.

In Tajpura, rainwater entered homes, while the Services Hospital faced flooding, creating challenges for patients and medical staff.

The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) reported that 288 feeders tripped due to the rain, causing widespread power outages.

LESCO appealed to consumers for patience as teams worked to restore the electricity supply.

The highest rainfall was recorded at Lahore Airport with 337 millimetres, followed by Pani Wala Talab at 203 millimetres, Lakshmi Chowk at 191 millimetres, Upper Mall at 182 millimetres, Mughalpura at 173 millimetres, Tajpura at 180 millimetres, Nishtar Town at 227 millimetres, and Chowk Nakhuda at 163 millimetres.