Climate Change Worldwide and Its Severe Impact on Pakistan

Pakistan has become one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world, facing back-to-back natural disasters. From floods to heatwaves, hailstorms to droughts, recent events clearly show how climate change is reshaping life in the country. Here are some of the major incidents:

Flash Floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (August 2025)

In mid-August 2025, a rare cloudburst hit Buner district and surrounding areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Heavy rains within just an hour triggered flash floods and landslides, killing more than 300 people and leaving hundreds missing. Villages were swept away, and relief teams struggled to reach cut-off areas.

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (July 2025)

In Gilgit-Baltistan, rising temperatures caused rapid glacial melt. Several glacial lakes burst, leading to flash floods and landslides that destroyed homes and roads. Dozens of people lost their lives while thousands were displaced. This disaster highlighted how global warming is accelerating glacial retreat in northern Pakistan.

Monsoon Flooding Nationwide (Summer 2025)

During June and July 2025, unusually heavy monsoon rains triggered widespread flooding across Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. More than 600 people were killed, and thousands of families were forced to evacuate. Croplands were submerged, threatening food security and rural livelihoods.

Deadly Heatwaves (First Half of 2025)

Extreme heat gripped Pakistan in early 2025, with temperatures soaring above 50°C in parts of Sindh. Over 1,000 people died from heat-related illnesses, while power shortages and water scarcity worsened the crisis. Outdoor workers and the elderly were most at risk.

Hailstorm in Islamabad (April 2025)

In April, Islamabad experienced a severe hailstorm with stones as large as tennis balls. The storm shattered windows, damaged vehicles, and even cracked parts of the iconic Faisal Mosque. It was one of the most destructive hailstorms the capital has seen in decades.

Windstorm After Heatwave (May 2025)

Soon after the intense heatwave, a strong windstorm hit parts of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad. Roofs collapsed, trees fell, and flying debris killed at least 14 people while injuring over 100. The storm showed how extreme weather patterns are becoming more frequent.

Emerging Drought Conditions (Late 2024 – Early 2025)

Even before the floods and storms, Pakistan faced below-average rainfall between September 2024 and January 2025. Provinces like Sindh and Balochistan experienced drought-like conditions, damaging crops and worsening water shortages.