On May 24, 2025, heavy rains and powerful windstorms swept across Punjab, Pakistan, leaving at least eight people dead and 45 injured, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The storms caused widespread damage to infrastructure, disrupted transportation, and led to power outages in several areas.(Dawn)
🌧️ What Happened?
The PDMA reported that the fatalities occurred due to the collapse of dilapidated houses and exposure to unsafe conditions during the storm. The deaths were reported in the following districts:
- Jhelum: 3 deaths
- Rawalpindi: 1 death
- Sheikhupura: 1 death
- Nankana Sahib: 1 death
- Sialkot: 1 death
- Mianwali: 1 death(Dawn)
In Sheikhupura, the roof of a local factory collapsed due to strong winds, killing one worker and seriously injuring five others. Rescue 1122 teams responded promptly, pulling the victims from the rubble and transporting them to the Sheikhupura District Headquarters Hospital.
⚠️ Emergency Measures and Public Advisories
The PDMA had issued alerts urging citizens and provincial authorities to remain on high alert. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia directed deputy commissioners and rescue agencies across the province to stay vigilant amid reports of wind and rain in various districts. The PDMA’s control room monitored the situation 24/7, coordinating emergency responses.
Citizens were advised to:
- Stay away from electric poles and hanging wires.
- Avoid open spaces during bad weather and lightning.
- Refrain from unnecessary travel and drive slowly.
The public can call the PDMA helpline at 1129 for assistance.
🚧 Transportation Disruptions
Severe weather conditions led to the closure of several motorways to ensure public safety:
- M2 Motorway: Thokar to Kot Momin
- M3 Motorway: Faizpur to Darkhana
- Lahore-Sialkot Motorway
Dark clouds and severe thunderstorms were also reported on:
- M4 Motorway: Abdul Hakeem to Sher Shah
- M5 Motorway: Multan to Rahim Yar Khan
- National highways from Lahore to Chichawatni, Mian Channu, Khanewal, Multan, and Lodhran
Motorway Police spokesperson Syed Imran Ahmed urged the public to exercise caution while driving and avoid speeding.
⚡ Infrastructure and Power Outages
The heavy rains and windstorms caused significant damage to infrastructure:
- Several mud and dilapidated houses were damaged across the province.
- Incidents of falling trees and damage to solar panels were reported in Lahore.
- The Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) reported power supply disruptions in South Punjab, with feeders tripping in Multan, Khanewal, Vehari, and Sahiwal.
MEPCO Chief Executive Officer Gul Muhammad Zahid directed operational officers to remain alert, stating that power restoration activities would commence after the storm subsides.
🏥 Relief Efforts and Assistance
Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed announced that medical assistance would be provided to the injured individuals. The PDMA also stated that financial assistance would be extended to the affected families.
Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Director General Ghufran Ahmed instructed all staff and machinery to remain on full alert, with pumps and personnel ready at all underpasses to address potential flooding.
📞 Stay Informed and Safe
In light of the severe weather conditions, residents are advised to:
- Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
- Keep away from electrical installations and avoid contact with waterlogged areas.
- Stay updated through official channels and heed advisories from local authorities.
- In case of emergencies, contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.