ISLAMABAD: Severe lightning, thunderstorms, and heavy rains have led to the tragic deaths of 30 individuals across Pakistan, with more rough weather predicted in the days ahead, according to a report by German news agancy.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) disclosed that several others sustained injuries in rain-related incidents within the past 48 hours.
In the central province of Punjab, 17 people lost their lives due to lightning strikes at various locations, as reported by rescue official Farooq Ahmad.
Additionally, eight fatalities occurred in the southwestern region of Balochistan due to heavy rains and thunderstorms, according to the local disaster management agency.
In the rugged mountainous areas of the northwest, collapsing roofs and walls following two days of downpours claimed five lives, stated local rescue official Bilal Faizi.
Chief meteorologist Sardar Sarfraz cautioned that Pakistan should brace for more rain and thunderstorms in the upcoming days.
Punjab province bore the brunt of the devastation, where six individuals were injured in lightning strikes amid heavy rainfall affecting various districts.
The torrential downpours also inflicted damage to numerous houses, prompting authorities to evacuate stranded individuals to safer locations. Furthermore, the heavy rains resulted in traffic congestion on major roads and highways.
Citizens and tourists have been advised by authorities to refrain from unnecessary travel in the affected districts for several days. Collaborative efforts involving the NDMA, civil departments, and volunteers have been initiated to carry out rescue and relief operations in the affected regions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued warnings of continued heavy rains with thunderstorms until Monday, raising concerns about potential flash floods, landslides, and damage to standing crops.
