Flash Floods Claim 35 Lives in Northern Pakistan

Northern Pakistan is reeling from devastating flash floods that have claimed at least 35 lives in the past 48 hours, Anadolu Agency reported today.

Torrential rains have wreaked havoc in the Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, destroying homes, bridges, and livestock, while isolating numerous suburban villages. Landslides triggered by the heavy rainfall have blocked roads, complicating rescue efforts.

Local resident Israr Ahmad described the situation as “very serious,” noting that while human losses are tragic, the infrastructural damage is immense. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority reported that 19 fatalities and 15 injuries were linked to rain-related incidents. Among the dead, 11 family members drowned in Kohat after their basement flooded, while eight others were killed by lightning in the Thar desert.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department warns of continued rains and flooding from August 2 to 6, urging authorities to remain vigilant amid the ongoing monsoon season exacerbated by climate change.