46 Homes Gutted as Rain, Dust Storms and Fires Cause Widespread Damage in South Punjab
LAHORE – Severe weather conditions across South Punjab have left a trail of destruction, with strong winds, dust storms and rainfall causing fires, property damage, livestock losses and casualties in several districts.
According to rescue officials, one unidentified man lost his life while nine other people sustained injuries during weather-related incidents reported over the past 24 hours. Authorities have placed emergency services on high alert as meteorologists warn of more severe weather in the coming days.
The worst-hit area was Bate Sauntra in Alipur Tehsil, where powerful winds and a dust storm triggered dozens of fire incidents. Rescue 1122 officials reported that 46 homes were damaged by fires that spread rapidly due to strong gusts of wind.
The fires also destroyed approximately 64,000 kilograms of stored wheat, dealing a major financial blow to local farmers and residents. Five people were injured during the incidents and received medical assistance from rescue teams.
In Rajanpur district, an unidentified man died in Kot Mithan on Rohjan Road during the severe weather conditions. Rescue officials confirmed that four additional people were injured in separate weather-related incidents across the district.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) also reported significant damage in Rajanpur and Muzaffargarh, where strong winds damaged solar energy installations and triggered multiple fires that affected residential properties and livestock shelters.
Officials stated that weather-related incidents resulted in substantial livestock losses. A total of 115 animals were killed while three others suffered injuries. The dead animals included 45 goats, 15 cows and calves, five donkeys, and around 50 chickens and ducks.
The losses have raised concerns among farming communities, many of whom depend heavily on livestock for their livelihoods and income generation.
Emergency Services on High Alert
Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed directed all relevant departments to remain fully prepared for any emergency situation. He instructed commissioners, deputy commissioners and Rescue 1122 teams across the province to maintain a high level of readiness due to forecasts indicating additional severe weather activity.
Authorities have also been directed to ensure proper medical treatment and assistance for injured individuals and support for affected families.
The PDMA confirmed that financial assistance for affected households has been initiated under the directions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Officials stated that relief efforts are being coordinated to help families recover from losses caused by the storms and fires.
PDMA Director General Umar Javed said the provincial control room and district emergency operation centres have been placed on round-the-clock monitoring status to respond quickly to any developing situation.
More Rain and Hailstorms Expected
According to the PDMA, strong winds, rain and hailstorms are expected across various parts of Punjab from June 2 through June 5. Weather experts have warned that isolated severe weather events may accompany the incoming system.
Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions and remain cautious around electricity poles, power lines and weak structures. Authorities have also urged people to seek safe shelter during thunderstorms and lightning activity.
Parents have been advised to keep children away from damaged or dilapidated buildings that may become dangerous during storms and heavy rainfall.
Weather Alert Across Punjab
The PDMA has issued a province-wide alert for rain, strong winds and hailstorms affecting numerous districts. Areas expected to receive rainfall include Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Bhakkar, Layyah, Faisalabad, Jhang, Okara, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Khushab and Mandi Bahauddin.
Rainfall is also forecast in Lahore, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Jhang and nearby regions over the next several days.
Farmers have been advised to take preventive measures to protect standing crops, livestock and agricultural equipment from possible storm damage.
Authorities Urge Public Caution
Emergency management officials emphasized the importance of following weather advisories and safety instructions. Residents have been encouraged to remain indoors during severe storms, secure loose objects around homes and businesses, and immediately report emergencies to rescue authorities.
As weather conditions continue to evolve, authorities remain on alert to respond to any additional incidents and provide assistance to communities affected by the ongoing spell of severe weather across Punjab.
