Flash Floods Claim Lives in Northern Pakistan
A sudden cloudburst struck Swabi district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on August 18, causing flash floods that swept away homes and claimed at least 25 lives. This event has pushed the overall death count from ongoing monsoon rains in the province to 341, with rescue teams still searching for over 150 missing people amid warnings of more downpours.
Devastation in Swabi’s Remote Areas
The cloudburst hit the Gadoon Amazai hills, particularly villages like Dalori and Kolgar, where fast-moving waters destroyed dozens of houses and triggered landslides. Local officials report 25 deaths in Swabi, including women and children, with several bodies recovered from the debris. Injured residents received immediate medical aid, but blocked roads have slowed rescue work.
Residents describe the scene as chaotic, with floods submerging streets, vehicles, and shops. One survivor said the water rose so quickly that escape was nearly impossible. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority has confirmed widespread damage, including ruined bridges and cut-off routes.
Clip shows the intensity of floods in Swabi, with water breaking through barriers and flooding urban areas.
- Casualties in Swabi: At least 25 dead, several injured, and many missing.
- Property loss: Over 20 houses destroyed, roads and bridges washed away.
- Rescue status: Teams from Rescue 1122 and local administration working non-stop, but heavy rain hampers efforts.
This adds to the broader crisis in KP, where districts like Buner and Swat have seen hundreds of deaths since late June. Climate experts link the severe weather to warmer temperatures increasing monsoon intensity.
Broader Impact Across KP and Beyond
The floods have affected multiple areas in KP, with Buner alone reporting 222 deaths earlier. In Swat, villages face similar destruction from raging rivers. Nationwide, over 660 people have died from rain-related incidents, with Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir also reporting losses.
Authorities note that poor drainage and construction near waterways worsened the damage. Forecasters predict heavy rains until August 21, urging people in vulnerable spots to evacuate.
Footage of teams navigating flooded zones in Swabi to aid trapped residents.
Video from ground zero in Swabi, highlighting the extent of flooding and local struggles.
Government and Relief Actions
The KP government has allocated Rs800 million for relief, plus Rs500 million for Buner. Federal support includes donations from cabinet members and army involvement in rescues. Over 425 camps provide essentials like food and medicine.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for swift restoration of infrastructure. Local leaders, including Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, expressed condolences and stressed the need for long-term climate strategies.
