700 dead as Monsoon Rains Ravage Northwest Pakistan
Pakistan reels under a catastrophic monsoon crisis as relentless floods claim nearly 700 lives, bury entire villages, and leave hundreds missing. In Buner, a single hour of torrential rain obliterated homes and roads, while Karachi’s urban deluge turned streets lethal.
Devastating floods fueled by heavy monsoon rains and a massive cloudburst have claimed at least 699 lives across Pakistan since late June 2025, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province hit hardest. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) reports 350–358 deaths in the northwest, including 222–225 in Buner district, where 150mm of rain fell in a single hour on August 15. Over 200 people remain missing, and nearly 1,000 are injured, as entire villages lie buried under mud and debris.
The floods have wreaked havoc in Buner, Bajaur, Swat, Shangla, and other districts, destroying 74 homes in Buner alone and crippling roads and bridges. Karachi faced severe urban flooding with 145mm of rain, causing 10 deaths from electrocutions and collapses. Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir reported 11 and 9 deaths, respectively, with landslides blocking key routes like the Karakoram Highway. A tragic incident in Qadar Nagar saw 24–28 members of one family perish on the eve of a wedding.
Climate change, amplifying monsoon rains by 10–15% and accelerating glacial melt, is a major factor, alongside deforestation and poor urban planning. Pakistan, one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable nations, faces recurring disasters despite low global emissions. Rescue efforts have saved over 25,000 people, but a helicopter crash killed five crew members, and damaged infrastructure hampers operations. Relief camps are distributing aid, though waterborne diseases loom as a threat.
The NDMA’s early warnings failed to reach some areas, drawing criticism from Buner residents. With more rain forecast through September 10, disaster zones have been declared, and evacuations urged. UN Secretary-General António Guterres offered support, but Pakistan has not requested foreign aid.