Pakistan & Kashmir Face Deadly Monsoon: Nearly 200 Lives Lost in 24 Hours
ISLAMABAD:
Devastating monsoon floods and landslides have claimed at least 194 lives in the past 24 hours across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, turning several regions into disaster zones.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in north-western Pakistan was the worst hit, with 180 fatalities reported by provincial disaster authorities. Torrential rains triggered flash floods that swept away homes, bridges, and roads, leaving thousands stranded. At least 30 houses were destroyed, and tragedy deepened when a rescue helicopter crashed during operations in Bajaur, killing all five crew members.
In Pakistan-administered Kashmir, nine people lost their lives, while the Gilgit-Baltistan region reported five deaths. Officials have warned that heavy rainfall is expected until August 21, with more flooding possible in already affected areas.
Survivors Describe Scenes of Horror
In Buner, survivors recalled the terrifying moments when walls of water roared through villages.
“I heard a loud noise, like the mountain itself was collapsing. Everything was shaking — it felt like the end of the world,” said Azizullah, a local resident. “The ground was trembling, and it felt like death was right in front of me.”
Rescue Efforts Underway Amid Chaos
In Bajaur, residents gathered around rescue sites as excavators dug through thick mud in search of missing people. Funeral prayers were held nearby, with mourners standing beside bodies wrapped in blankets.
The Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur, confirmed that the helicopter crash was caused by severe weather while en route to flood-hit zones along the Afghan border.
Crisis Spreads Beyond Pakistan
Across the border in Indian-administered Kashmir, at least 60 people were killed when a flash flood tore through a Himalayan village, washing away homes and burying dozens under rubble.
A Season of Record Rainfall
Between June and September, South Asia typically receives three-quarters of its annual rainfall. This year, Pakistan has recorded over 300 deaths from monsoon-related disasters. In July, Punjab — home to almost half of the country’s 255 million people — saw 73% more rainfall than last year, resulting in more casualties than the entire previous monsoon season.
Experts Link Tragedy to Climate Change
Climate scientists warn that global warming is intensifying extreme weather patterns, making floods and landslides both more frequent and more destructive.
Authorities continue to urge residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate as the nation braces for more rain in the coming days.