A Pakistani official says the death toll from flash floods in the country's northwest has risen to at least 274 after rescuers recovered dozens of bodies from the rubble of collapsed houses.

The tragedy has been compounded by controversy, after a senior politician blamed locals for the high number of fatalities, suggesting people should have constructed their homes elsewhere. That sentiment has been met with anger from villagers, who accuse officials of failing to issue timely evacuation warnings.

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.