Indoor Air Quality Alert: Pakistan Monsoon Flooding

Flooded street
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What is the location of the flooding?

Since June 26, 2025, heavy monsoon rains have caused devastating floods and landslides across Pakistan, particularly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces (1). Punjab, the country’s most populous region, has seen severe urban flooding, especially around the Nullah Lai River near Rawalpindi and Islamabad (2).

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Swat Valley, has faced flash floods and glacial melt from Gilgit-Baltistan’s 7,200 glaciers, exacerbating river overflows.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The flooding has directly impacted the following areas in Pakistan:

Homes, roads, and crops have been destroyed, with significant damage in Chakwal and Lahore, where waterlogging has disrupted power and mobility (3). In Swat Valley, flash floods have swept away vehicles and infrastructure (4).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

As of July 28, flooding persists in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with forecasts predicting more rain through the month (5). The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has deployed rescuers and pre-positioned relief supplies, but containment remains challenging due to damaged infrastructure and ongoing downpours (6).

Emergency declarations in Punjab and parts of Balochistan aim to expedite aid, but rural areas remain cut off. Flood alerts have been issued for Islamabad and Rawalpinidi (7).

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Over 100,000 people have been evacuated, particularly from low-lying areas near the Nullah Lai and Swat Rivers. Rawalpindi declared a public holiday to keep residents safe, while emergency alerts are active in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The NDMA has warned of potential flash floods and landslides, urging residents to avoid rivers and streams.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

  • Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
  • Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
  • If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
  • Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
  • Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
  • Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
  • Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
  • Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
  • If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.

About IQAir
ABOUT IQAIRIQAir is a Swiss technology company that empowers individuals, organizations and governments to improve air quality through information and collaboration.

[1] YoonZia ur-Rehman J, Masood S. (2025, July 19). Floods and Heavy Rain Kill Dozens in Pakistan.  The New York Times.

[2] Ng K. (2025, July 17). Pakistan monsoon rains kill 63 in 24 hours.  BBC News.

[3] Hussain A. (2025, July 22). Rains, flash floods kill 21 in Pakistan; tourists rescued in hilly north. Al Jazeera.

[4] Del Bello L, Mangi F, Hui M. (2025, July 22). Pakistan braces for more rainfall days after deadly floods. Bloomberg.

[5] Mishra V. (2025, July 21). Deadly floods show need for faster, wider warnings, UN agency says.  UN News.

[6] Kothari R. (2025, July 15). At least 6 dead and 15 missing as floods strike Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.  The Watchers.

[7] Alam S. (2025, July 28). PMD issues flood alert for Islamabad and Rawalpinidi.  Pro Pakistani.

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