One third of Pakistan engulfed by floods

Photo by Wolfgang Hasselmann on Unsplash

Source: Vatican News/Caritas Pakistan

More than one third of Pakistan is currently under water as a result of flooding, caused by record monsoon rains.

Sherry Rehman, Pakistan's Climate Change Minister, said the country is experiencing a crisis of "unimaginable proportions."

Describing the situation as a "climate-induced humanitarian disaster of epic proportions" affecting more than 30 million people, she said: "It's all one big ocean, there's no dry land to pump the water out."

During his Pastoral Visit to Aquila in Italy yesterday, Pope Francis said: "I want to assure the people of Pakistan, hit by a flood of disastrous proportions, of my closeness. I pray for the numerous victims, for the wounded and those forced from their homes, and that international solidarity might be prompt and generous."

More than 1,000 people are known to have died in Pakistan. The country has appealed for international help, as the death toll rises.

Caritas Pakistan has issued an urgent appeal. See: https://caritas.org.pk/flood-situation-latest-update-caritas-pakistan-is-seeking-support-for-helping-the-flood-victims/