At least nine people, including children and their rescuers, died after sudden floodwaters swept through a river in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, turning a family picnic into tragedy.

A family picnic turned deadly in northern Pakistan’s Swat Valley on June 27, when sudden floodwaters—swollen by monsoon rains—swept away children taking photos in the river and relatives who tried to save them. According to district administrator Shehzad Mahboob, nine bodies have been recovered so far, but it's still unclear how many of the victims were children.

The family were domestic tourists visiting the area, local mayor Shahid Ali Khan confirmed. Over 80 rescue personnel and local volunteers are searching for survivors, rescue official Shah Fahad said.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority later issued a flood alert, urging the public to take safety measures due to high water levels.

Each summer, tens of thousands of Pakistani tourists flock to the northern peaks and glaciers. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed sorrow over the tragedy, according to a statement from his office.

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