A new survey reveals growing anxiety among Pakistanis about the increasing frequency of cloudbursts, with rural residents expressing greater apprehension than their urban counterparts.
According to a Gallup and Gilani Pakistan poll, 41% of Pakistanis think cloudbursts are becoming more frequent. This apprehension is more pronounced in rural areas (43%) compared to urban centers (37%).
The study questioned a representative sample of adults nationwide, asking if they perceived cloudbursts as increasingly common. While 20% viewed these events as occasional, and another 11% believed they have always occurred, a significant 20% considered the recent spate of cloudbursts as unusual. The remaining 8% were uncertain or declined to answer.
This data highlights widespread worry regarding extreme weather phenomena, with rural populations appearing particularly vulnerable or perceptive of the risks. This underscores the necessity for improved climate resilience and disaster management strategies, especially in areas beyond major cities.
The research, conducted by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan (affiliated with Gallup International), involved telephonic interviews (CATI) with 323 men and women across both urban and rural locations in all four provinces. The fieldwork took place from August 20-21, 2025. The margin of error is approximately ± 2-3% at a 95% confidence level. The source of this information is the Gilani Research Foundation.