Seven killed, 33 injured as heavy rains batter K-P

PESHAWAR:

At least seven people lost their lives and 33 others were injured in rain-related incidents across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 24 hours as heavy rainfall and strong winds continued to lash parts of the province, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) stated on Sunday.

The casualties were reported from several districts, including Bannu, Shangla and Mansehra, where roofs and walls collapsed amid severe weather conditions on Saturday.

The deceased included two children, four men and one woman, while the injured comprised seven men, 12 women and 14 children.

The incidents occurred as the Pakistan Meteorological Department had forecast dust storms, windstorms, rain and thunderstorms across the country's upper regions from June 11 to 13.

In response, the PDMA said it was working in close coordination with Rescue 1122 and district administrations to carry out relief operations and had directed local authorities to expedite assistance to affected families.

In its statement, the authority said the PDMA, Rescue 1122 and district administrations remained actively engaged in relief efforts in the affected areas. It also advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly to vulnerable tourist destinations, and to strictly follow weather advisories issued by government agencies.

PDMA Director General urged the public to exercise caution amid the ongoing weather conditions, while noting that the authority's Emergency Operations Centre remained fully operational. Citizens seeking assistance or information were advised to contact the PDMA helpline at 1700.

The latest fatalities come weeks after similar weather-related incidents in May, when two people were killed and 11 others injured across the province.