KP floods death toll crosses 200: PDMA

At least 202 people, including women and children, were killed as deadly floods hit different parts of Malakand Division and adjoining areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said on Friday, with Buner being the worst-affected district by the latest monsoon spell.

However, it is feared that the death toll may rise further as many people are still missing.

On the other hand, a Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government helicopter crashed in the Chengai Banda area of Mohmand, resulting in the death of five crew members.

The helicopter was on its way for rescue efforts in Bajaur.

It was a cloudburst that devastated Buner where the deputy commissioner confirmed the death of 120 people, resulting in imposition of flood emergency.

Heavy downpour started lashing the region on Thursday night and continued well into the Friday morning, destroying many houses and other buildings as well as farmland.

Read more: Pakistan Army, govt intensify flood rescue efforts as death toll rises in KP

The raging water in streams, nullahs and even roads forced people to take refuge on rooftops after unusually intense rain hit the region.

As water level rose in rivers and streams, many vehicles have also been reportedly swept away.

Meanwhile, it was Bajaur which first experienced the cloudburst and the resultant flash floods that claimed 17 lives. Eight others were injured.

On the other hand, initial reports suggest at 10 people were confirmed dead and 18 others missing in Battagram — a district in Hazara Division, which borders Malakand.