🌩️ What is a Cloudburst?

A cloudburst is a rare and powerful weather event where more than 200 millimeters of rain falls within just one hour. Commonly referred to as “bursting of clouds,” it usually occurs in mountainous regions with heavy thunder and lightning, often triggering flash floods and landslides.

🔬 Why Do Cloudbursts Happen?

Meteorologists explain that:

• Rising warm air currents prevent clouds from holding moisture.

• When the pressure becomes unstable, massive amounts of water are suddenly released.

• Climate change has intensified these events due to higher humidity and shifting weather patterns.

🇵🇰 Deadly Cloudbursts in Pakistan This Year

This monsoon season, Pakistan has witnessed several devastating cloudburst incidents:

• Chakwal: A record 423 mm of rainfall flooded the region.

• Hyderabad: Nearly 70% of city streets went underwater.

• Gilgit-Chilas (Babusar Pass): Flash floods killed 19 tourists and swept away vehicles.

⚠️ Buner and Swabi Hit Hard

The most catastrophic impact came in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:

• Buner: Over 150 mm of rainfall in one hour destroyed villages, leaving 207 people dead in the district and 320 casualties overall.

• Swabi (Dalori Gadoon): Flash floods and landslides destroyed 12 houses and killed 15 people.

Rescue operations are still underway, and displaced families are being shifted to safer areas.

🛡️ How to Mitigate Cloudburst Damage

Experts warn that predicting cloudbursts is nearly impossible. However, Pakistan can reduce the risks by:

• Avoiding construction near riverbeds and streams.

• Strengthening drainage systems.

• Increasing forest cover to stabilize soil.

• Developing safe evacuation routes in vulnerable areas.

🌍 Climate Change and Rising Threats

Cloudbursts are becoming a new climate reality for Pakistan. Poor infrastructure, unplanned construction, and global warming are amplifying their deadly impact. The tragedies in Buner and Swabi highlight the urgent need for stronger policies, disaster preparedness, and climate resilience.

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