Severe rainstorms accompanied by strong winds have wreaked havoc across Punjab during the past 24 hours, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to at least 22 others. In Sheikhupura's Mirza Virkan area, the collapse of a roof claimed the lives of two children — 2-year-old Arham and 5-year-old Haram — while two others sustained injuries. In Vehari, incidents of structural collapse due to the heavy rainfall were reported in several areas including 23WB, Muslim Town  Stop, 19WB, and 57WB.

Four individuals were injured in these accidents. Additionally, one person was injured in Chak No. 59WB when solar panels fell during the storm. In Bhakkar's Mankera area, a wall collapsed on Link Road near Hyderabad City, injuring one person. Similarly, in Dera Ghazi Khan’s PEG City area, three people were wounded when a roof caved in. In Attock, six members of a family were trapped inside their house due to heavy rain and urban flooding near Babu Chowk, Chungi No. 07.

Rescue teams reached the site promptly, provided medical aid, and moved all individuals to a safe location. Multiple rain-related incidents were also reported in Lahore. In Harbanspura, a motorcyclist was injured due to a slippery road. Another person was injured near the New Ravi Bridge.Similar motorbike slip incidents in Ali Raza Abad and Wahdat Colony left two more individuals injured. In the Kashmiri Gate area, a child died due to electrocution after coming into contact with an electric pole.In another incident on Aashiana Road, a person was injured when a roof collapsed.

Authorities have urged citizens to stay indoors during extreme weather, avoid low-lying areas, and take necessary precautions as rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue over the coming days.According to data from the Water and Sanitation Agency’s (Wasa) Monsoon Control Room, Lahore received an average of 58.8mm of rain, with some areas like Nishtar Town recording the highest 84mm, followed by Lakshmi Chowk (78mm) and Paniwala Talab (74mm).

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)