A sudden surge of flash floods caused by pre-monsoon rains has claimed the lives of at least seven tourists in northwest Pakistan. The deadly incident occurred on Friday when rising waters swept away visitors picnicking along the Swat River. Over the past 24 hours, the overall death toll from rain-related incidents across the country has risen to 17, officials reported.
Rescue teams, comprising nearly 100 personnel, are actively searching for the missing tourists. Shah Fahad, a spokesman for the provincial emergency service, confirmed that 16 members of a single family are among those either dead or unaccounted for.
Divers have managed to rescue seven people and recover seven bodies after hours of frantic efforts. The search continues for any remaining victims. Social media footage shows a dozen people stranded on a small ledge in the middle of the Swat River, crying out for help as floodwaters rapidly rise around them.
Authorities have issued warnings urging the public to heed earlier advisories about the risk of flash floods in the Swat Valley, a popular summer destination renowned for its scenic beauty. The region attracts tens of thousands of tourists each year, both during summer and winter.
In addition to the tragedy in Swat, rescue officials reported at least 10 fatalities in the eastern Punjab and southern Sindh provinces due to rain-related incidents over the same period. Forecasters warn that rains are expected to persist throughout the week, as Pakistan’s annual monsoon season, which runs from July to September, continues.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his grief over the loss of life and directed authorities to enhance safety measures along rivers and streams. Heavy rains over recent days have caused widespread disruptions, including blocked highways and damaged homes across parts of the country.
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