Monsoon rains continue to wreak havoc in Pakistan, pushing the nationwide death toll to 279, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).

Since the onset of the rainy season, 676 people have been injured in rain-related incidents across the country. The NDMA has urged all provincial governments to stay alert and take immediate steps to deal with emergency situations.

Punjab province has recorded the highest number of casualties, with 151 deaths and 535 injuries. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa follows with 64 fatalities and 80 injuries, while Sindh has reported 25 deaths and 40 injured.

In total, 148 rescue operations have been carried out, with most directed towards Punjab. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh have also seen significant rescue activity.

The NDMA has issued flood and landslide warnings for various regions, particularly in mountainous and northern areas. Alerts have been raised for areas in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Shigar, Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, and Bagh.

Heavy rainfall combined with glacial melt is also expected to raise water levels in the river Chitral, threatening areas like Buni and Reshun in the Chitral Valley.

Authorities have instructed all disaster response units, including rescue teams and machinery, to be on standby. Provincial Disaster Management Authorities and local administrations have been directed to remain vigilant and implement preventive measures.

As the monsoon continues, the NDMA has reiterated its call for coordinated response and preparedness to minimize further loss of life and property.