ISLAMABAD — Flash floods and landslides triggered by torrential monsoon rains have killed at least 307 people across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, authorities said Saturday, as rescue efforts continue in several mountainous regions declared disaster zones.

The majority of fatalities were reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in northwestern Pakistan, where steep terrain and relentless downpours caused widespread destruction.

At least 74 homes were damaged, and a military helicopter carrying emergency personnel crashed en route to Bajaur due to severe weather, killing all five crew members, officials said.

In the northern Gilgit-Baltistan region, five people were confirmed dead. Another nine fatalities occurred in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

Rescue workers remain on high alert, as the national meteorological department warned that heavy rainfall is expected to persist until August 21 in affected areas.

“It felt like doomsday,” said Buner resident Azizullah, describing the moment a torrent swept through his village. “The ground was trembling due to the force of the water. It felt like death was staring me in the face.”

In Bajaur, mourners gathered for funeral prayers near a muddy hillside where rescue crews, using heavy equipment, searched for victims buried under debris.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province declared a day of mourning in honor of the victims.

Meanwhile, in Indian-administered Kashmir, at least 60 people died when a flash flood struck a remote Himalayan village, washing away homes and leaving dozens missing, authorities said Friday.

The South Asian monsoon season, spanning June to September, brings about 75% of the region’s annual rainfall. But this year, the downpours have proven especially deadly. In July, the Punjab region—home to nearly half of Pakistan’s 255 million population—recorded 73% more rain than the same month last year and more flood-related deaths than during the entire previous monsoon season.

Scientists attribute the rising frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in South Asia to climate change. — BBC