Lahore, August 2025 – Pakistan is currently facing one of its most devastating flood emergencies in years. From flash floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to widespread river flooding in Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Azad Kashmir, the humanitarian crisis is worsening with every passing day. 


The Scale of the Disaster 

The floods have caused large-scale destruction across the country:


  • Over 800 people have lost their lives since June, including more than 320 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
  • Nearly 1 million people have been evacuated in Punjab, with up to 1.2 million affected in the eastern parts of the province due to overflowing rivers.
  • According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), 799 fatalities and more than 1,000 injuries have been reported so far.
  • Flash floods and cloudbursts in mountainous areas have triggered landslides, blocking roads and isolating communities.

These numbers continue to rise as rescue efforts remain ongoing in hard-hit areas.


Health Risks During Floods

Flood disasters not only destroy homes and infrastructure but also give rise to major public health concerns. Some of the most dangerous risks include:   


Waterborne Diseases

Stagnant and contaminated water increases the spread of diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, and skin infections.  


Vector-Borne Illnesses 

Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to dengue and malaria outbreaks. During the 2022 floods, dengue cases spiked by over 850%, showing how quickly these diseases spread. 


Risks for Vulnerable Populations 

Older adults, children, and people with chronic illnesses are most affected during disasters. Limited mobility and lack of healthcare access make them especially vulnerable. Relief organizations have started deploying mobile clinics to support them. 


The Climate Change Connection

Experts link the increasing intensity of floods in Pakistan to climate change. Warmer air holds more moisture, causing heavier monsoon downpours. Some key contributing factors include:  


  • Cloudbursts: Sudden “rain bombs” releasing over 100mm of rain in an hour, now more frequent in northern Pakistan.
  • Deforestation and poor drainage: Lack of natural buffers increases flood damage.
  • Unplanned urbanization: Rapid development without proper water management worsens the impact of heavy rains.

These conditions make Pakistan one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. 


Safety Precautions Everyone Should Follow

To stay safe during the floods and protect against health risks, experts recommend the following precautions:

  • Boil or chlorinate drinking water to prevent infections.
  • Avoid contaminated food and maintain proper hygiene.
  • Use mosquito nets or repellents to reduce the risk of malaria and dengue.
  • Watch for early symptoms like fever, diarrhea, or rash and seek medical care quickly.
  • Drain stagnant water around your home to stop mosquito breeding.
  • Prepare an emergency kit with food, water, and medicines.
  • Avoid walking in floodwaters, as hidden currents and contamination are dangerous.
  • Check on vulnerable people—children, elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
  • Care for mental health, since displacement often causes stress and trauma.


Instacare.pk: Supporting Health During Emergencies

At Instacare.pk, we believe healthcare access should never be interrupted, even during disasters. Our platform helps people book lab tests online, consult doctors virtually, and find trusted healthcare facilities without the need to travel in unsafe conditions.


During emergencies like the 2025 floods, Instacare provides timely health information, awareness on disease prevention, and easy access to diagnostic services, so families can stay safe and informed.


Why This Matters

The 2025 floods are a clear reminder of how climate change is directly affecting Pakistan’s health and safety. Alongside immediate rescue and medical relief, the country needs long-term strategies such as better water management, stronger healthcare systems, and climate adaptation policies.


At the same time, platforms like Instacare.pk play an important role in connecting people to healthcare services and ensuring that disease prevention and treatment remain accessible during crises.