Chisom Umejiaku
Flash floods triggered by a rare cloudburst have killed more than 330 people in northern Pakistan, leaving widespread destruction across mountainous communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and nearby districts.
The disaster struck on Saturday, August 16, after intense rainfall dumped over 150 millimetres of water in less than an hour. Authorities confirmed that at least 207 people died in Buner district alone, where torrents swept through more than 100 villages. Other hard-hit areas include Swat, Bajaur, Shangla, Mansehra and Battagram. Many homes, roads and bridges were destroyed, while families were reported missing after entire settlements were submerged.
Rescue operations resumed on Monday, August 18, with teams from the military, local authorities and the National Disaster Management Authority clearing blocked roads, constructing temporary bridges and distributing food, medical supplies, tents and clean water. Officials said more than 150 people remain unaccounted for as searches continue in remote areas.
Survivors described the devastation as “doomsday-like,” with some families swept away during gatherings and weddings.
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Since late June, Pakistan’s monsoon season has claimed at least 657 lives nationwide. Weather officials have warned of further heavy rains through early September, raising fears of more flooding in vulnerable districts.
Experts say climate change is increasing the frequency of such extreme weather events, as warmer air holds more moisture and results in heavier rainfall. Authorities admitted that while early warning systems are in place, they were unable to predict the sudden severity of the disaster.
