Lahore (Web Desk): The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday released its preliminary report on the storm-related incidents across Punjab, confirming that eight people died and 45 others were injured in separate areas in the province.
The report stated that most of the fatalities occurred due to the collapse of old and unsafe buildings, with the PDMA spokesperson emphasizing the dangers posed by such structures during extreme weather.
The breakdown of fatalities included three deaths in Jhelum, while one person each died in Rawalpindi, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sialkot, and Mianwali. In Lahore, several reports emerged of trees being uprooted and solar panels suffering damage as a result of strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Following the incidents, the PDMA announced that financial assistance would be provided to the families affected by the disaster.
Taking notice of the situation, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz directed the district administrations and rescue teams to remain on high alert.
She expressed concern over the heavy rains and storms sweeping across the province and took notice of flooding in several low-lying areas, directing officials to implement emergency measures to mitigate further damage.
On Friday, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), issued an advisory which warned of isolated showers, thunderstorms, windstorms, and dust storms likely to occur within 12 to 36 hours in various parts of Punjab, Islamabad, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In light of the advisory, residents were urged to stay cautious, secure loose items, and avoid unnecessary outdoor travel during severe weather events.
The National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of NDMA, also issued an impact-based advisory, cautioning that strong winds and thunderstorms could potentially uproot weak trees and cause temporary power outages. Dust storms, the advisory noted, pose a threat to fragile structures, rooftops, vehicles, and electrical systems, while also reducing visibility, which may increase the risk of road accidents.
Among the vulnerable areas identified in Punjab were Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Lahore, Narowal, and their surroundings.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the forecast included isolated rainfall, windstorms, and dust storms expected to impact districts such as Chitral, Battagram, Kohistan, Kohat, Kurram, Bannu, Mardan, Peshawar, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Dera Ismail Khan, Bajaur, Mohmand, and nearby regions over the next 12 to 36 hours.