The Meteorological Department has forecasted rain with thunderstorms across most areas of the country in the next 24 hours.

Since August 15, heavy rains, cloud bursts, and flood flows in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have resulted in 358 fatalities and 181 injuries, prompting the closure of educational institutions throughout the Malakand Division, including Swat.

Heavy rain anticipated

Significant rainfall is expected in Islamabad and surrounding regions, with various cities in Punjab also facing severe weather. Several cities in Sindh and certain districts in Balochistan are likely to experience heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms.

The Meteorological Department warns of potential flooding in local streams and springs due to the rainfall, as well as urban flooding in low-lying areas of Punjab, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Sindh.

Additionally, the risk of landslides has increased in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galiyat, and Kashmir, leading authorities to advise residents and travelers to stay alert.

Rainfall impact in Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Intermittent rainfall is ongoing in Peshawar and many districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, causing flooding in several areas and disrupting traffic.

The Meteorological Department reports that Peshawar remains under cloud cover with more rain expected.

Casualties and damage report from PDMA

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has released a report detailing casualties and damages across various districts.

The report states that 358 people have died and 181 have been injured due to recent rains and flash floods. The deceased include 287 men, 41 women, and 30 children, while the injured consist of 144 men, 27 women, and 10 children.

A total of 780 houses have been reported damaged, with 431 partially and 349 completely destroyed. Buner district has been the hardest hit, with 225 fatalities, while other affected districts include Swat, Bajaur, Mansehra, Shangla, Lower Dir, Battagram, and Swabi.

Severe weather warning

PDMA has indicated that severe rain is anticipated from August 17 to 19, with the current rainfall expected to continue intermittently until August 21.

Authorities have directed the administration in affected districts to accelerate relief efforts and provide immediate assistance to victims.

The Emergency Operation Center is fully operational, and the public can contact helpline 1700 for information on emergencies or weather updates.

Closure of educational institutions

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced the closure of all public and private educational institutions in flood-affected areas from today until August 25.

Educational institutions throughout the Malakand Division, including Swat, will remain closed.

The district administration has also released a report on the devastation caused by the floods.