Torrential Rains Kill 17, Destroy Homes Northern Pakistan

Torrential monsoon rains and mudslides hit areas in northwestern Pakistan early on Sunday, killing at least 17 people and destroying homes.

Officer Mohammad Nawaz said eleven bodies were recovered from the debris of mud and brick houses in the Tor Ghar district.

Nawaz added that rescuers were searching for the remaining victims that included women and children.

He said three adjacent homes were completely swept away in the remote village of the district, while other houses were less affected.

Authorities in the city of Abbottabad revealed that a mudslide in the suburbs also killed a couple, and their child, and injured three others.

The country's disaster management authorities noted that they were dispatching relief aid to the affected area, but mudslides in mountainous areas were delaying delivery. They also affirmed that efforts were underway to clear the roads.

The monsoon season lasts until mid-September in Pakistan, and similar incidents are not uncommon.