Over two million people in Pakistan’s Punjab province are affected by the worst floods in the region’s history, with at least 1,400 villages and settlements inundated.
Flood Statistics
The flooded areas have seen evacuation efforts underway, with displaced people finding shelter in schools and temporary camps. However, the local authorities face resistance from some residents who refuse to evacuate. They have to convince people that the expected subsequent flood waves will be larger and that they won’t be able to survive them.
Health Concerns
The flood also poses a health threat beyond the immediate danger of water, as it facilitates the spread of contagious diseases. Hospitals in the region fear a surge in cases of diseases such as hepatitis and jaundice, as well as snakebites, as reported by The Guardian.
Climate Change Role
The climate crisis exacerbates floods in the region. The monsoon, a regular element of the local climate, brings significant rainfalls that form the basis of local agriculture. However, climate change causes these rains to be increasingly intense, which translates into heavier floods. When warm air takes in more moisture, it results in more significant rainfall that leads to floods.
