Flash floods caused widespread destruction across Pakistan after a fresh monsoon system unleashed torrential rain on Monday. Consequently, homes, bridges, vehicles and shops suffered severe damage across Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Authorities also reported rising river and stream levels. Therefore, officials urged residents and tourists to avoid flood-prone areas until conditions improve.
Cloudburst Devastates Neelum Valley
The worst destruction occurred in Katha Piran, Neelum Valley, after a powerful cloudburst triggered a massive flash flood.
Floodwaters swept away a mosque, a government school, six houses and 16 shops. Moreover, the torrent washed away a passenger van, two jeeps, 11 motorcycles and six wooden bridges.
The disaster caused extensive losses to public infrastructure and private property. Meanwhile, officials continued assessing damages across the affected region.
Flash Floods Hit KP, Coach Crash Injures Fourteen
Heavy rain also triggered flash floods in Landi Kotal, Bara and Jamrud, disrupting traffic. Additionally, floodwaters blocked the Pakistan-Afghanistan Highway, affecting transportation.
A passenger van carrying an Afghan family was swept away in Landi Kotal. As a result, three family members, including a woman, lost their lives.
Rescue 1122 divers, supported by local volunteers, recovered the bodies from Jabba Khwar stream. Afterwards, rescue teams transported the victims to a nearby hospital.
Officials continued search operations because additional family members may still be missing. Furthermore, Rescue 1122 urged people to stay away from rivers and flood channels.
Elsewhere, a passenger coach plunged into a ravine near Shangla Top. Consequently, the accident injured 14 passengers.
Flash floods also devastated Kaghan Valley, destroying four wooden bridges and two concrete bridges. In addition, dozens of houses and shops suffered partial damage.
Floodwaters also destroyed several water supply schemes, fish farms and standing crops. Meanwhile, authorities monitored water levels and warned communities about possible further flooding.
