Rescuers in Pakistan have recovered dozens of bodies from the rubble of collapsed homes in Buner district, bringing the death toll to at least 274. Authorities defended their response to the flooding, stating they do not need foreign help at this point.
Heavy rains and cloudbursts triggered massive flooding on Friday, killing dozens more people in neighboring Kashmir. The government warned of more deluges and possible landslides between now and Tuesday, urging local administrations to remain on alert.
Pakistan has received 50% more rainfall than the same period last year since monsoon season began in June. Lt. Gen. Inam Haider, chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority, attributed the increased flooding to shifting weather patterns due to climate change.
The government has sufficient resources and does not require foreign assistance at this point, according to Chairman Haider. However, some countries have reached out to offer help.
Climate change is intensifying extreme weather events in South Asia, experts say. Pakistan produces less than 1% of planet-warming emissions but faces heatwaves, heavy rains, glacial outburst floods, and now cloudbursts.
The country experienced a record-breaking monsoon in 2022, killing nearly 1,700 people and destroying millions of homes. Experts warn that climate change is devastating communities within hours.
Rescue efforts continue, with villagers still missing and search efforts focused on areas where homes were flattened by torrents of water. Authorities are urging local administrations to remain vigilant for more deluges and possible landslides.
Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/08/18/nx-s1-5505909/pakistan-defends-flood-response-hundreds-killed