Recent extreme weather conditions in Pakistan have resulted in a tragic death toll of at least 63 individuals over the span of four days. The country has been grappling with the aftermath of heavy rains and lightning strikes, leading to widespread devastation in various regions.
The province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bordering Afghanistan, has been particularly hard hit, with collapsing buildings claiming the lives of 32 people, including 15 children and five women. Additionally, 1,370 houses have been damaged in the northwest, leaving dozens injured and in need of assistance.
Further casualties have been reported in Punjab and Baluchistan, with 21 deaths attributed to lightning strikes and building collapses in Punjab, and 10 fatalities in Baluchistan following flash floods. Authorities in Baluchistan have declared a state of emergency as they brace for more rain and continue rescue operations in affected areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has highlighted the impact of climate change on the recent weather patterns, noting a significant increase in rainfall across the country. Baluchistan, in particular, has experienced a staggering 353% more rainfall than usual this month, underscoring the changing climate dynamics in the region.
In 2022, Pakistan faced a similar crisis when heavy downpours led to widespread flooding, claiming the lives of 1,739 individuals and causing substantial economic damages. The country is still in the process of recovery from the 2022 floods, which inflicted $30 billion in losses.
Neighboring Afghanistan has also been affected by heavy rains, with 33 reported deaths in rain-related incidents. The situation remains challenging as authorities work to address the immediate needs of affected communities and mitigate further risks posed by the inclement weather.
