Islamabad, Aug 17 (V7N) – Devastating floods caused by cloudbursts have wreaked havoc across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province in Pakistan, leaving hundreds dead and countless homes destroyed.

The village of Besantri in Buner has been almost entirely wiped out by rushing floodwaters. Rescue operations are underway, but the scale of destruction has made it difficult to even conduct proper burials.

Casualties and Damage

  • More than 300 people have died, including over 200 men and more than 100 women and children.

  • In one house, 17 people perished; 14 bodies have been recovered while 3 remain missing.

  • At least 74 homes across Swat, Bajaur, Torghar, Mansehra, and Shangla have been destroyed, with 11 fully demolished and 63 partially damaged.

Local residents described the terrifying scenes: “I was on my way to work when I saw water rushing in. People were shouting for help. Several houses were destroyed instantly, and many climbed hills to escape.”

Over 2,000 rescuers, including security and emergency forces from other provinces, are involved in relief operations. Heavy machinery is being used to remove debris, and helicopters are deployed to reach remote hilly areas. However, adverse weather has already caused a helicopter crash carrying five passengers.

Meteorological reports indicate that Pakistan received 10–15% more rainfall than average over the past month, a phenomenon experts link to global warming. The disaster is primarily caused by cloudbursts, which occur when a small area receives 10 centimeters or more of rainfall within an hour.

Authorities continue to appeal for calm and cooperation as rescue and relief operations strive to reach the hardest-hit areas.

END/SMA/AJ