At least 26 people have lost their lives as heavy rains triggered widespread flash floods and landslides across Gilgit Baltistan, parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Bajaur district. The extreme weather struck on Friday, causing severe destruction in several regions.

In Bajaur district, at least nine people were killed and four others injured due to severe flooding and landslides in the Jabrrai and Salarzai areas. Rescue officials reported that sudden torrential rains caused water to rush through villages, sweeping away homes and residents. A cloudburst in Salarzai further intensified the destruction, prompting immediate relief and rescue operations.

On the orders of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, the Deputy Commissioner of Bajaur and district officials are present on-site to oversee rescue operations. Provincial rescue teams are actively working in the affected areas, and a helicopter has been deployed to assist in relief efforts.

The Chief Minister has instructed authorities to use all available resources for rescue and recovery and has asked the commissioners of Malakand and Bajaur to monitor the situation closely. District administrations in Dir and Swat have been placed on high alert due to ongoing adverse weather conditions.

CM Gandapur emphasized the importance of taking pre-emptive safety measures to protect lives and property. He also urged continuous monitoring of rainfall and weather patterns in districts prone to flooding.

The recent monsoon season has caused severe damage throughout Pakistan. Over 300 people have died nationwide due to flooding and landslides, highlighting the urgent need for effective disaster management and early warning systems in vulnerable regions.

The ongoing floods and landslides in northern Pakistan underscore the increasing threat of extreme weather events during the monsoon season. Authorities continue to work tirelessly to rescue affected residents and provide relief to displaced families.