Pakistan floods - 16th September 2022

Pakistan is flooded. It rained for weeks. 1,400 people died in the floods. This is a natural disaster. Pakistan's government and the United Nations are asking countries for help.

The World Health Organisation says it's an emergency. Millions of people need help. Tedros Ghebreyesus says the situation is very serious.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: "More than 1000 deaths have been reported, and almost 900 health facilities have been damaged. Three quarters of Pakistan's districts and 33 million people have been affected, with more than 6 million in dire need of humanitarian aid."

Irfan Ali was in the flood for 15 days. He couldn't go anywhere. A helicopter saved him.

Irfan Ali: "We were stuck in the flood water for 15 days, we waved towards the helicopter, then we were rescued by the forces."

The floods destroyed many homes and farms. There's little food. Imran Ali is staying in a camp. He can eat there.

Imran Ali: "We have been here for 15 days, we have no problem here, we are getting food and drink every day and apart from that, we are also getting ration. We are thankful to the district administration and forces."

The rainy season in Pakistan was very long this year. Scientists say that it's because of climate change. Pakistan doesn't have a lot of pollution. But its climate is changing.

Many countries are having natural disasters. Tedros Ghebreyesus wants all countries to take care of the environment.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus: "Floods in Pakistan, drought and famine in the Greater Horn of Africa, and more frequent and intense cyclones in the Pacific and Caribbean all point to the urgent need for action against the existential threat of climate change."