13 people dead, 90 injured in Punjab rainstorm: PDMA

According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said a severe storm that hit several areas across Punjab has resulted in at least 13 deaths and injured 92 people.

As per the PDMA spokesperson, in Lahore, three people died directly from the storm and strong winds. There were also fatalities in other districts, which included one each in the districts of Rawalpindi, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sialkot, and Mianwali; whereas Jhelum had three fatalities.

The spokesperson also noted that the storm caused damage to a large number of mud houses and old buildings. In Lahore, it was reported that there were fallen trees and damage done to solar panels.

The PDMA has instructed commissioners, deputy commissioners, and rescue agencies across the province to be in a state of high alert in case of any emergency.

The authority has kept its control room in the province open 24 hours a day, and will carry out its duty to assist those affected according to its provincial policy, reported PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia.

According to Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed, all possible medical support is being provided to those injured in incidents related to the storm.

In another event, a flight by a private airline travelling from Karachi to Lahore experienced severe turbulence after entering a severe windstorm.

Reports about the flight indicate that the aircraft was caught in the windstorm for several minutes, leading to panic and fear among passengers, many of whom were heard reciting prayers during the distressing experience.