More than 150 people are missing in northwest Pakistan, the head of the provincial disaster authority said Sunday, after flash floods that have killed at least 344 people in the country.

Pakistan is reeling from devastating monsoon rains, with the death toll soaring to nearly 650 since June 26th. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the hardest-hit province, especially Buner district. Rescue efforts are hampered by landslides and damaged infrastructure,

Pakistan has received higher-than-normal monsoon rainfall this year, triggering floods and mudslides that have killed more than 540 people since June 26.

The country has endured heavier rain during monsoon seasons, which scientists have attributed to climate change. The authorities said that at least 194 people died on Friday.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's MI-17 helicopter had taken off from Peshawar for Bajaur when contact was lost over Mohmand tribal district, according to initial reports.

Aug 16 (Reuters) - The death toll from heavy rains and flooding in Pakistan has crossed 300, local officials said on Saturday. Hundreds have been killed in recent weeks as Pakistan experienced more rain than usual during the current monsoon season, washing away roads and buildings.

Rescue workers in northwestern Pakistan expanded relief operations Sunday after flash floods killed more than 220 people in a single district, officials said.