LeadStory

Reuters

What is a cloudburst and why are they so dangerous?

Reuters · Just In
Reuters
Reuters
Just In

Deadly flash floods and landslides in Pakistan’s northwest have claimed over 300 lives after days of relentless monsoon rains. Homes, roads, and bridges were swept away in a matter of hours, with officials blaming a rare weather event known as a cloudburst.

Breakdown
  • Flash floods and landslides in Pakistan's north-west have killed over 300 people after intense monsoon rains.
  • The destruction was triggered by a rare weather event called a cloudburst, which is a sudden, intense downpour. 16s
  • Cloudbursts cause flash floods and landslides, especially in areas affected by deforestation. 1m 1s
  • Experts link the increasing frequency of heavy rainfall to global warming, which allows more water vapour in the atmosphere. 1m 18s
  • Predicting cloudbursts is challenging, highlighting the need for better planning and risk reduction strategies. 1m 53s
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