Severe weather conditions, including powerful windstorms and heavy rains, have resulted in the deaths of at least 19 individuals and left over 90 injured across various regions of Pakistan. As the storms swept through Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad, significant disruptions to road and air travel were reported, alongside widespread power outages.
The storms brought with them intense rainfall and hail, particularly affecting Islamabad, where many low-lying areas experienced flooding and trees were uprooted. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while no fatalities were recorded, the agricultural sector suffered extensive damage due to high winds and hail, impacting crops and power infrastructure. The provincial power utility reported that over 113 feeders were rendered inoperative, with major disruptions affecting cities such as Peshawar, Mardan, and Abbottabad.
In Punjab, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) indicated that fatalities included three individuals each from Lahore and Jhelum, while other regions such as Sialkot and Muzaffargarh reported two deaths each. Many casualties were attributed to collapsing structures, with numerous incidents involving falling trees and damage from solar panels and billboards also noted.
Rescue operations were mobilized across the affected areas, with authorities urging citizens to exercise caution as further adverse weather was predicted. The PDMA directed local officials to remain vigilant in response to the ongoing conditions.
In terms of transportation, severe weather forced the closure of several motorways, including key routes like the M2 and M3, leading to significant travel delays. Air travel was also impacted, with a private flight from Karachi to Lahore encountering severe turbulence during landing, prompting the pilot to abort the landing and return to Karachi. Subsequently, multiple flights were either delayed or rerouted due to low visibility and hazardous conditions.
As the storm subsided, the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasted continuing rain and thunderstorms into the following days, raising concerns among citizens and officials alike regarding further damage and safety. Authorities have begun assessing the impact of the storm, with a focus on restoring power and infrastructure while providing necessary medical aid to those injured.
