LAHORE: At least six people died and five others were injured due to lightning strikes triggered by windstorms and rain in various districts of Punjab.
This region is currently grappling with both storm damage recovery and an impending intense heatwave.
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported that the lightning strikes occurred in Sialkot and Rawalpindi districts. They are closely monitoring the situation and emphasizing the need for swift medical assistance to the injured and financial support for the families of the deceased.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia highlighted the importance of a collaborative response to natural disasters, urging district administrations to remain vigilant and proactive. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also expressed her condolences to the bereaved families and stressed the importance of providing the best medical facilities for the injured. She directed the administration to launch effective relief operations in the affected areas. The PDMA has been directed to prepare for further rains.
Punjab is bracing for a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar to 45-48°C starting May 27, posing significant public health and safety risks. South Punjab districts, including Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Multan, are particularly vulnerable to this intense heatwave.
Bahawalpur is already faced with extreme hot weather, with a maximum temperature recorded at 46°C in the last 24 hours. The PDMA has issued high alert advisories to all relevant departments, directing them to prepare for emergency situations. Heatwave counters have been established in hospitals throughout the region for swift assistance to those affected.
Heatwave conditions are expected to prevail over most plain areas of the country, with dust-raising and gusty winds forecasted for the next twelve hours. Partly cloudy weather with rain-wind/thunderstorms may occur at isolated places in Gilgit-Baltistan.
