Web Desk: Torrential monsoon rains and sudden cloudbursts triggered flash floods across several parts of Pakistan, killing at least four people, leaving three missing and causing widespread damage to homes, schools, roads and public infrastructure, authorities said.
The heavy rainfall affected areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where rising water levels, landslides and overflowing streams disrupted daily life and forced authorities to issue warnings in vulnerable regions.
In Khyber district, powerful flood currents swept away two vehicles following intense rainfall. Rescue teams recovered several passengers, including women and children, while police said three people remained missing.
In another incident near Zakariya Mosque in the Khuga Khel area, floodwaters trapped a vehicle, but all occupants were rescued safely.
Meanwhile, authorities continued monitoring river conditions as the Chenab River rose at Head Qadirabad in Hafizabad. Officials recorded inflows of 138,000 cusecs and outflows of 115,000 cusecs, resulting in low-level flooding.
In Layyah’s Samran Sheeb area, strong currents from the Indus River caused major destruction, washing away two government schools and damaging public infrastructure.
River erosion also affected hundreds of acres of farmland, damaged around 300 houses and impacted more than five settlements. Several mosques, electricity poles and other essential facilities were also swept away.
Additionally, the Kohlia Bridge near Hassan Abdal collapsed for the second consecutive year after heavy rains. The locally built bridge served as a key connection between border villages of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and its destruction has disrupted transport links for residents.
In Neelum Valley, a powerful cloudburst caused streams to overflow, flooding homes, shops and roads. Near Mengal Nala, floodwaters carried away vehicles, motorcycles and livestock, while traffic along the Neelum Highway was severely affected.
Another cloudburst in Mansehra’s Jabori area damaged hotels and residential buildings, disrupting normal activities.
Authorities advised tourists and visitors to avoid vulnerable waterways, including the Kunhar River, Siran Valley and Kaghan Valley, due to the continued threat of flash floods.
At the same time, persistent rainfall in Murree and Galiyat brought cooler temperatures, providing relief from recent heat conditions.
Separately, four labourers were killed and three others injured after a landslide struck the Budda Las area of Chalt in Nagar district.
Rescue officials said the workers were returning home after completing their work when falling debris buried them. Authorities identified the deceased as Shafqat from Layyah, Fida Hussain from Chalt, and two others from Kohistan.
The bodies were transported to their hometowns for burial.
In another incident in Katha Piran area of Neelum Valley, a cloudburst triggered flash floods that damaged residential buildings, businesses and public facilities.
Initial reports showed that at least six houses, 16 shops, a mosque and a middle school building were destroyed. The Government Girls High School Katha Piran also suffered significant damage, affecting local education services.
Floodwaters submerged a carry van, two jeeps, 11 motorcycles and six wooden bridges, disrupting movement in the area.
The district administration said no casualties had been reported from the incident and that teams were assessing the full extent of the damage.
Officials said relief and assessment teams were working in affected areas while administrations monitored river levels, vulnerable communities and damaged infrastructure.
Pakistan’s monsoon season regularly brings heavy rainfall, with flash floods and landslides posing recurring risks in mountainous and low-lying regions. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious and follow safety instructions as further rainfall remains possible.
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