Five Dead, Dozens Injured as Hailstorm Devastates Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
A violent hailstorm, accompanied by strong winds and lightning, has left five people dead and at least nineteen others injured across Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), and parts of Islamabad. The severe weather caused widespread destruction, collapsing buildings, starting fires, and disrupting daily life in the northern regions of Pakistan.
Fatalities and Property Damage
The deadly storm wreaked havoc in several areas. In Jhelum, three individuals, including a woman, were tragically killed when their home walls collapsed due to the powerful gusts and heavy rain. In Kot Addu, a young man lost his life after being struck by lightning, highlighting the severity of the storm’s impact.
A young boy was also killed when the wall of a mosque in Rawalpindi’s Ratta Amral area collapsed during the storm. Authorities have reported that five other victims remain in critical condition as a result of the storm’s aftermath.
Storm’s Widespread Impact
The hailstorm caused extensive damage across multiple regions. In Kotli, lightning ignited a forest fire, which quickly spread due to the strong winds, creating a dangerous situation. In Chilas, gusty winds toppled house walls, resulting in the death of a child and injuries to two others.
In *Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the storm’s heavy rainfall triggered flash floods, washing away roads and creating traffic chaos. The Pak-Afghan highway in Khyber district*was closed due to the severe flooding, leaving numerous cargo vehicles stranded. In *Mansehra*, fallen power lines led to widespread power outages, affecting the region’s daily activities.
Azad Kashmir Affected by Intense Rainfall
In *Azad Kashmir, cities such as Bhimber, Kotli, and Mirpur* were also impacted by the storm. Intense rainfall and a sharp drop in temperatures have left many residents grappling with cold conditions. The region has witnessed severe disruptions, including travel delays and road closures.
Authorities’ Response and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
Authorities are continuing their efforts to provide aid and ensure the safety of affected communities. Rescue teams have been dispatched to the hardest-hit areas, while efforts to restore power and clear roads are ongoing.
As of now, emergency services are focusing on those injured, while also dealing with the aftermath of damaged infrastructure. With five fatalities already confirmed, local officials are urging residents to stay alert and take precautions against potential aftereffects of the storm.
Looking Ahead
While the storm has passed, the impact on *Punjab, **Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and **Islamabad* is still being assessed. With reports of extensive property damage and ongoing recovery efforts, authorities are closely monitoring the situation to provide further assistance wh
