Fact Check: Did a Cloudburst Trigger Devastating Floods in Diamer?

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has responded to reports circulating on social media and some news platforms claiming that a cloudburst-triggered flood caused widespread destruction in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Diamer district.

According to the reports, a cloudburst in Chilas’ Khanberi Valley allegedly triggered flash floods that destroyed dozens of homes, standing crops, orchards and link roads. The claims further stated that several remote areas, including Khanbari, Manikal, Shahi Mahal, Bichi Nala and Lainchar, had been cut off after roads were washed away, leading to shortages of food and essential supplies.

However, the PMD has rejected the cloudburst claims, saying no such weather event was recorded in the area. Officials said the reports linking the alleged destruction to a cloudburst were inaccurate and urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources.

The clarification came after reports suggested that emergency teams had been mobilized and relief operations launched in response to the alleged disaster.

The PMD emphasized that while parts of northern Pakistan have witnessed rainfall in recent days, there is no evidence to support claims that a cloudburst occurred in Diamer district. Officials advised citizens and media organizations to verify weather-related information before sharing it publicly.