Rain wreaks havoc in Punjab, leaving at least 13 dead and 92 injured.

 

NDMA Declares a Rain Emergency in Rawalpindi and Issues a Storm and Hail Warning in Punjab

Within the next two to six hours, Punjab is predicted to be pounded by severe storms and hailstorms, according to a warning from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). In the meantime, due to severe weather, authorities in Rawalpindi have declared a rain emergency.

In Punjab, severe thunderstorms with heavy rain and lightning have killed at least 13 people and injured 92 more, according to preliminary damage estimates issued by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday.

Several weather-related incidents occurred around the province as a result of the strong weather system. A number of districts, including Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, and Sialkot, reported fatalities, according to PDMA.

According to the government, the majority of fatalities were caused by people being in dangerous areas during the storm or by crumbling, outdated buildings. Numerous shoddy and mud-brick houses sustained serious damage.

Responses to Emergencies and Relief Activities

All divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, and emergency services have been told to maintain a high level of alertness by Relief Commissioner Nabil Javed. He gave officials instructions to guarantee the highest quality of medical care for all affected people.

"All rescue agencies, including Rescue 1122, must keep their teams and equipment on standby," Javed stated. "In line with the Punjab government’s policy, financial assistance will be provided to affected families."


The PDMA Director-General added that all district emergency operation centers and the provincial control room are now on high alert. * "We are monitoring the situation 24/7 from our central control room," * he stated.

Advice for Public Safety

Residents have been advised by authorities to stay indoors or in safe places throughout the storm and to avoid needless travel. Additionally, people have been warned to avoid dangling cables and electric wires.

"To avoid lightning strikes, remain in safe shelters and avoid open areas during thunderstorms," recommended the PDMA. "Keep children away from weak or damaged buildings."

Heatwave Breaks in the Weather System

Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Abbottabad, Gujranwala, and the surrounding districts experienced intense rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms earlier on Saturday due to a strong weather system. Temperatures dropped significantly as a result of this abrupt adjustment, which ended the region's ongoing heatwave that had been present for several days.

Cool breezes blew into Islamabad in the morning, and by 11 AM, the day had turned to night due to heavy clouds. Soon after, the capital and surrounding areas were inundated with hailstorms and torrential rain, which brought much-needed respite from the intense heat.


The sudden change in weather was welcomed by the locals, who had been suffering from intense heat and high humidity. "The cool breeze and rain have transformed the city into a refreshing sight," one resident remarked.

Data on Rainfall and Its Effects

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reports that up to 40 mm of rain fell in different areas of the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Among the notable figures are:

Golra: 10 mm


29 mm from PMD Headquarters

Shamsabad: 32 mm

Area of Kachhari: 6 mm

In order to control possible hazards, Rawalpindi has formally declared a rain emergency due to the extreme weather.

In the evening, a storm strikes Lahore.

Around 4 PM, the storm hit Lahore as ominous clouds engulfed the city. In just a few minutes, a powerful dust storm significantly lowered visibility, necessitating the use of headlights and lighting to safely traverse the highways.

A thorough examination of the circumstances

Reasons for the Severe Weather

A western disturbance interacting with moist winds from the Arabian Sea is responsible for the abrupt change in weather patterns. Punjab saw severe thunderstorms, hailstorms, and strong winds as a result of this incident.

Structure-Related Risks

Numerous fatalities happened in rural areas when dwellings are constructed using flimsy materials. Tragic losses resulted from the collapse of old buildings and mud dwellings due to the storm's intensity.

Government Reaction

Rescue Operations: To help impacted communities, emergency personnel, including Rescue 1122, have been called in.

Medical Assistance: Hospitals have been instructed to give storm-related ailments top priority.


Financial Assistance: Families who lost loved ones or property will receive compensation from the Punjab government.

Public Readiness

While the government is acting, residents need to be cautious as well:

Steer clear of needless travel during storms.


When there are strong winds, stay inside and away from windows.

Electrical appliances should be unplugged to prevent power surges.

Have emergency supplies on hand, such as drinking water, first aid kits, and flashlights.

Extended Consequences

This severe weather occurrence emphasizes the necessity of:

more storm-resistant infrastructure.


methods for early warning to notify populations that are at risk.

initiatives to raise public awareness of catastrophe preparedness.

In conclusion

To reduce damage and guarantee safety, authorities and residents must cooperate as Punjab prepares for additional storms in the hours ahead. While the PDMA and other authorities are still on high alert, personal attention to detail is just as important.

Navigate this difficult weather situation by being informed, staying safe, and according to government precautions.