Cloudburst in Pakistan: Reasons and Safety Measures
One of the reasons attributed to recent flash floods in Pakistan is the cloudburst phenomenon, a natural occurrence that many of us are not aware of. According to a report, the Buner received more than 150 millimeters of rain within just an hour due to a cloudburst. Among the most affected areas are Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
In this article, we will discuss the reasons for cloudbursts and how they have been wreaking havoc in Pakistan. We will also discuss some safety measures and what we should do as responsible citizens to protect the environment. More importantly, we will discuss how you can help the victims of the ongoing floods in Pakistan and save lives by donating to Transparent Hands.
What is Cloudburst?
A cloudburst is a natural meteorological phenomenon characterized by rapid, abrupt, and intense rainfall. Cloudbursts mostly happen in mountainous areas.
A cloudburst begins with warm, moist air rising on the mountain slopes. The phenomenon is called orographic lifting. As the air moves upward, it cools, causing water vapor to condense and leading to the formation of clouds. Strong upward currents within these clouds trap water droplets, and as condensation accelerates, the cloud becomes more loaded and saturated with water. At a particular point, the updrafts weaken, and the droplets become too heavy for the clouds to hold. That is when the water starts to fall, almost with a sudden burst. This often results in flash floods and landslides in mountainous regions.
Safety Measures
- Cloudbursts cannot be entirely prevented, but we can still save lives by effectively utilizing early warning systems, such as Doppler Radar.
- Avoid visiting areas where flash floods and landslides are likely to occur.
- Try to stay away from rivers and streams, which can flood rapidly during heavy rainfalls.
- Stay informed and tuned with the news.
- Always keep an emergency kit with you.
- If you live in vulnerable areas, keep yourself prepared for an evacuation.
- In the event of incessant rains, consider relocating to safer areas.
- Communities residing in mountainous areas should establish early warning systems and effective communication channels to inform all residents in the event of an emergency.
Understanding Cloudburst in the Context of Climate Change
Flash floods are among the most devastating natural phenomena. They can wash out riverbeds and cause massive infrastructural destruction. Each year, more than 5000 people die in flash floods worldwide.
Climate change has triggered an increase in cloudburst events. As the average temperature rises, the atmosphere’s capacity to hold water vapor also increases. This leads to increased precipitation, resulting in heavier rainfall. Climate change has also been changing the regular monsoon cycle. It has become more unpredictable and intense, favoring conditions conducive to cloudbursts. Mountainous areas, such as Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, are more vulnerable to cloudbursts due to their topography.
Devastation Caused by Flash Floods in Pakistan:
According to a Reuters report, more than 700 people have been killed since late June. An NDMA report suggests that more intense monsoon spells are likely to hit the country. Meanwhile, the death toll and losses to infrastructure will keep rising. To mitigate losses, organizations like Transparent Hands are providing flood relief to the most affected areas.
The survivors of the flood must receive immediate assistance. Besides food and protection, they will need access to healthcare services to stay safe from various viruses and water-borne diseases that often follow flooding. Access to clean drinking water and sanitation will be vital for protection against many prevalent diseases.
How will Transparent Hands Help?
With your support and assistance, Transparent Hands will help flood victims by arranging flood relief camps. We intend to reach out to the most affected regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Transparent Hands will be distributing the following services through our flood relief camps:
- Free First Aid
- Free Check-Ups and Medicines
- Free Medical Tests: BSR, Blood Pressure Check-Ups, Hepatitis B & C Screenings
- Preventive Healthcare Sessions
- Food Packs
We will be supporting more than 20,000 flood victims in KPK with your support and generosity. Donate to Transparent Hands now to ensure that our team and volunteers provide the required help to the flood survivors as soon as possible. Donate now and save lives!
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