Severe Flash Floods Cause Destruction in Northern Pakistan

Rescue operations in northern Pakistan have uncovered a tragic situation, as emergency workers have recovered dozens of bodies following devastating landslides and flash floods. This catastrophic weather event has resulted in at least 321 casualties over the past two days, according to data provided by disaster management agencies.

In the Buner district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, search and rescue efforts persist as hundreds of volunteers and professionals continue combing through the wreckage left by torrential rains and sudden cloudbursts. These downpours began on Friday, unleashing formidable flooding that swept away entire neighborhoods, as confirmed by officials from the provincial Disaster Management Authority.

The areas of Pir Baba and Malik Pura have been identified as particularly hard-hit, with responders prioritizing their efforts in these communities where many lives have been lost, as reported by Buner’s deputy commissioner, Kashif Qayyum. Local resident Mohammad Khan recounted the suddenness of the flood, stating that many were caught off guard and unable to evacuate their homes in time.

Dr. Mohammad Tariq, a physician at a Buner hospital, highlighted the dire circumstances faced by many victims, noting that the majority unfortunately succumbed to their injuries before reaching medical assistance. He reported a significant presence of children among the deceased, while many women were absent, tending to duties in more elevated areas.

The recent surge in rainfall above average levels has been largely attributed to climate change, which has intensified flooding and landslides in the region. Since June 2, approximately 541 people have lost their lives in similar incidents, according to the National Disaster Management Authority. Across the border, Indian-administered Kashmir has also faced severe flooding, resulting in additional casualties and hundreds of displacements in recent days.

Climate experts indicate that the frequency of cloudbursts in both India’s Himalayan regions and Pakistan’s northern territories has been escalating, with climate change recognized as a major factor. In response to the current crisis, Pakistani officials have successfully evacuated more than 3,500 tourists from flood-stricken areas since Thursday. Unfortunately, a number of visitors have ignored government advisories to steer clear of these hazardous regions, putting themselves at risk.

The year 2022 saw Pakistan grappling with unprecedented monsoon rains that claimed over 1,700 lives and incurred damages totaling around billion, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by climate variability in the region.

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