Heavy monsoon rains have caused deadly flash floods across northern Pakistan, killing at least 321 people in just 48 hours, according to the National Disaster Management Authority. Most of the deaths, 307, happened in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, while nine people died in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and five in Gilgit-Baltistan. Many victims were trapped in collapsing houses or swept away by floods, and at least 21 others were injured.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued fresh warnings of more heavy rain in the northwest, urging people to stay safe. Authorities have declared several mountainous districts — including Buner, Bajaur, Swat, Shangla, Mansehra, and Battagram — as disaster-hit areas.
Rescue efforts are underway, with about 2,000 workers involved in recovering bodies and helping survivors. However, the operations are facing serious difficulties due to landslides, washed-out roads, and continuous heavy rainfall. Rescue officials said many roads are blocked, forcing workers to travel on foot to reach remote communities. Transporting heavy machinery, ambulances, and emergency supplies has become extremely difficult.
Despite the dangers, many survivors are unwilling to leave their homes because their loved ones remain missing or trapped under debris.
The situation remains critical as weather conditions continue to pose new threats and delay relief operations.
-Peace News Desk.