Pakistan – Deadly Flash Floods Hit 3 Provinces

Heavy rain has brought flash flooding to several provinces of Pakistan over the last few days, with local media reporting over 25 fatalities.

The provincial government of Balochistan has declared an emergency and called for assistance from the Pakistan Army. At least three people have died in flash floods in the Lasbela district in the province.

Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) say that Khuzdar recorded 41 mm of rain and Lasbela 28 mm in 24 hours to 21 February.

Local media, quoting government officials, report that more than 200 families have been affected by the flooding in the province. Dozens of stranded people have been evacuated to safety by military and emergency workers.

Local media are also reporting that at least nine people were killed in three incidents of roofs collapsing after heavy rain in Punjab Province. The city of Multan is reportedly among the worst affected areas.

WMO reported 153 mm of rain in 24 hours to 21 February from the weather station at Multan. According to PMD, Narowal in the northeast of Punjab province recorded 85.1 mm of rain in 24 hours to 21 February, 2019.

Meanwhile in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the provincial Disaster Management Authority told reporters that 14 people have lost their lives after flash flooding there. No further details were available.

(Update: 22 February, 2019: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Disaster Management Authority said that the 14 fatalities related to severe weather occurred in Dir region, and the districts of Kohat, Hangu and Shangla. Thirteen people were also reported injured.)

Parachinar, the capital city of Kurram District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, recorded 62 mm in 24 hours to 21 February, according to WMO figures.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province borders Afghanistan where heavy rain has also been reported. WMO said that 116 mm of rain fell in 24 hours to 20 February at Kabul Airport.