Climate change is real, and the floods in Pakistan are its stark consequence.
Pakistan faces monsoon rains that often lead to devastating floods every year. This year happened to be one of the most devastating floods that the country has ever faced. 33 million people have been impacted, and 1100 people have lost their lives.
The International Red Cross (IRC) was set up in Pakistan in 1980, and just recently opened a crisis response group that would help those affected.
If you want to know more about the flood in Pakistan and how to help, read the complete article.
How Destructive Are These Floods?
Pakistan is no stranger to natural disasters. From earthquakes to tsunamis, the country has seen it all. But the one disaster that seems to hit Pakistan the hardest is flooding.
In 2010, Pakistan experienced its worst floods in history. Over 20 million people were affected, and over 1,985 lost their lives. The damage was estimated at over $43 billion.
The most recent floods in Pakistan occurred in June of this year. So far, over 33 million people have been affected, and nearly 1,718 have lost their lives. The damage is still being assessed, but it is expected to be in the billions. The rains have caused widespread flooding, washing houses, roads, crops, and livestock.
The United Nations has called the floods "one of the worst humanitarian crises in recent memory" and warned that millions more could be at risk if the rains continue.
But, Are Floods in Pakistan Normal?
Although flooding is an annual occurrence in Pakistan. This year, the floodwaters have caused extensive damage, killing hundreds and displacing millions more.
Recent research found that Climate Change and Pakistan’s flood may be connected. According to the study, Pakistan faced brutally heavy rains in June. Close to 75% more water is now falling during weeks when monsoon rains are strongest.
As NASA explains: “Rising temperatures will intensify the Earth’s water cycle, increasing evaporation. Increased evaporation will result in more frequent and intense storms, but will also contribute to drying over some land areas.”
That is why, if climate change worsens, we can expect rainfalls to increase and ocean levels to rise. Generating more and more flooding
The Pakistani government has been criticized for responding to the floods, with many accusing it of being slow to act and not doing enough to help those affected.
Most Affected Country By Climate Change
Pakistan is among the 10 most affected countries by Climate Change, while it is not at the top of most polluting countries.
The floods are only an example of how the actions and responses of first-world countries will affect the lives of millions of people in developing countries.
Then, who should pay for the consequences?
This is one of the most controversial questions that was addressed at COP 27 where an agreement was reached to create the "Loss and Damage Fund for Vulnerable Countries".
The agreement includes a specific fund to support developing countries in tragedies like this one Although the agreement is an important step, some wonder if it will be enough when the planet's temperature rises by 1.5°C.
Who are the Most Affected?
Women and girls are among the most affected by floods. Many women have been forced to give birth in unsanitary conditions and lack access to primary healthcare.
Lack of access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities increases the risk of water-borne diseases, which are more prevalent in women and girls due to their lower immune systems. In addition, women and girls are more likely to be sexually assaulted or kidnapped when displaced from their homes during a disaster.
The Pakistani government has been criticized for not doing enough to protect women and girls during disasters in the 2022 floods. NGOs have stepped in to fill the gap, but more needs to be done to ensure that women and girls are safe during and after a disaster.
What is The Current IRC's Response To The Floods in Pakistan?
The global humanitarian organization International Rescue Committee is responding to the floods in Pakistan by providing life-saving aid and supplies to those affected.
The IRC works with local partners to provide needy families with clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene kits. The organization also distributes food and other essential items and helps people access medical care.
The IRC's response is focused on meeting the immediate needs of those affected by the floods. Still, the organization is also working to help communities recover and rebuild in the long term. The IRC will continue to support flood-affected communities in Pakistan until they are back on their feet.
"33 million people require our help, many of them are Afghan refugees," according to Shabnam Baloch, "Millions of people have benefited from the IRC's critical food, supplies, and medical assistance. We're appealing to our donors to donate and help us reach out to others in need.
