Flash Floods and Heavy Rains Cause Devastation in Pakistan, Killing at Least 49

Flash floods in northwestern Pakistan have killed at least 49 people and stranded 1,300 tourists. The floods have been triggered by heavy rains, with most of the deaths reported in northern and northwestern Pakistan. Over 360 people have died in rain-related incidents across the country since June 26. Pakistan's President expressed his sorrow and grief over the losses, and authorities are working to expedite rescue and relief efforts.

July 02, 2025

Flash floods triggered by heavy rains have claimed at least 49 lives in northwestern Pakistan, according to local officials. The floods, which have stranded 1,300 tourists, have caused widespread devastation and displacement, particularly in northern and northwestern Pakistan.

The most recent incidents include the deaths of 10 people in Ghazar district of Gilgit-Baltistan, where flash floods swept away residents [1]. Similarly, a massive cloudburst in Bajaur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province resulted in the deaths of 16 people, with 17 others still missing [1]. In Battagram district, 10 people were killed, and 18 remain missing [1].

The Pakistani government has reported that over 360 people, mostly women and children, have died in rain-related incidents across the country since June 26. The majority of these deaths have occurred in northern and northwestern Pakistan [1].

President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed his sorrow and grief over the losses and has urged authorities to expedite rescue and relief efforts in the affected areas [1]. The Gilgit-Baltistan region, which is home to scenic glaciers that provide 75% of Pakistan’s stored water supply, has been hit by multiple floods since July, triggering landslides along the Karakoram Highway [1].

A study released this week by World Weather Attribution found that rainfall from June 24 to July 23 was 10% to 15% heavier due to global warming, contributing to the increased frequency and intensity of cloudbursts [1]. This trend is expected to continue, posing a significant threat to Pakistan's infrastructure and population.

Investors and financial professionals should closely monitor the situation, as the economic impact of these natural disasters can be substantial. The country's worst monsoon season on record in 2022 resulted in more than 1,700 deaths and an estimated $40 billion in damage [1].

References:

[1] https://apnews.com/article/pakistan-rains-flash-flooding-deaths-northwestern-region-6acee2de22f0d373c3cba2778f93a60b
[2] https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-08-15/flash-floods-triggered-by-heavy-rains-kill-at-least-49-people-in-northwestern-pakistan