The provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan has issued a flood alert in response to glacial melting, warning of potential heavy loss of life.
The country has been grappling with days of severe weather conditions, resulting in numerous fatalities and significant damage to property and agricultural land. Experts attribute Pakistan’s unusually heavy April rains to climate change. In the mountainous northwest region, authorities have raised concerns about glacial melting in several districts, exacerbating the flooding situation.
The authorities cautioned that the flood situation could escalate, urging people to relocate to safer areas as a precautionary measure.
Muhammad Qaiser Khan, representing the local disaster management authority, emphasized the importance of timely safety measures to prevent potential heavy loss of life and property.
According to the latest reports from the province, 46 individuals, including 25 children, have lost their lives in rain-related incidents over the past five days.
The impact of the rainfall has resulted in the collapse or damage of 2,875 houses and 26 schools.
In Baluchistan, located in the southwest, the situation remains dire due to heavy rainfall, with limited resources available to address the challenges.
The province expressed its intention to seek assistance from the central government if the rains persist.
Extensive downpours led to river swelling and widespread flooding In 2022, affecting one-third of Pakistan and resulting in the loss of 1,739 lives.
Pakistan’s monsoon season typically commences in June.
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