PESHAWAR: At least nine people have lost their lives and seven others sustained injuries after strong winds, lightning and heavy rain swept across multiple districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA).
The PDMA said the severe weather conditions affected several areas, including Dera Ismail Khan, Upper Dir, Kohat and Orakzai, where incidents of roof collapse, structural damage and lightning strikes were reported.
Among the deceased were five men, two women and two children. Rescue officials confirmed that emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the affected regions to assist in relief and recovery operations.
In addition to the loss of life, the stormy weather also caused damage to residential properties. According to preliminary assessments, three houses suffered partial damage, while one house was completely destroyed due to heavy winds and rainfall.
Rescue 1122 teams, along with district administration officials and PDMA personnel, are actively engaged in rescue operations and providing assistance to affected families. Authorities are also working to clear debris and assess further damage in the impacted areas.
The PDMA director general has directed all concerned departments to ensure the swift delivery of relief goods, including food, shelter and medical aid, to the affected families. He also instructed officials to intensify ongoing rescue efforts in coordination with local administrations.
Officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during the current spell of adverse weather. Citizens have also been advised to stay away from weak structures and flood-prone or landslide-prone zones.
The PDMA has set up a helpline (1700) for citizens seeking information or assistance related to the weather situation and emergency support services.
Meteorological authorities have warned that unstable weather conditions may persist in parts of the province, raising concerns about further incidents if precautionary measures are not followed.