At least 157 people have died in flash floods triggered by a massive cloudburst in north-west Pakistan, according to emergency services officials. Rescuers continue to search for dozens of missing people.
The latest fatalities bring the total number of rain-related deaths in Pakistan since June 26 to 556. In Bajaur district, a helicopter carrying relief supplies crashed due to bad weather, killing all five people onboard.
Experts say intense downpours are becoming more frequent due to climate change and that these events can cause devastating floods and landslides. The damage has increased with unplanned development in mountain regions.
Dozens were injured as homes were destroyed in the Buner district. Authorities declared a state of emergency, and ambulances transported 56 bodies to local hospitals. Rescuers worked tirelessly to reach stranded residents, but dozens are still missing.
The Gilgit-Baltistan region has been hit by multiple floods since July, causing landslides along the Karakoram Highway. A recent study found rainfall in Pakistan was 10-15% heavier due to global heating.
Heavy rain is forecast for the area, which may cause further flooding and landslides. The Indian-administered Kashmir region also witnessed flash floods, resulting in at least 300 people being rescued, but many are still missing.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/15/flash-floods-pakistan-huge-cloudburst-flooding-landslides-india