Severe weather swept across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 24 hours, leaving at least seven people dead and 33 others injured after heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms caused widespread destruction. The intense weather system led to the collapse of roofs and boundary walls in several districts, with authorities warning that unstable conditions are likely to continue.
According to data released by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the districts of Bannu, Shangla, and Mansehra were among the hardest hit. Collapsing structures caused most of the casualties, while numerous homes and buildings suffered damage as powerful winds and heavy rainfall battered the region.
The PDMA reported that the deceased include four men, two children, and one woman. Among the 33 injured are 14 children, 12 women, and seven men. Officials said the majority of the victims belonged to vulnerable communities where houses and other structures were unable to withstand the severe weather conditions.
Authorities have also expressed concern over the increasing threat of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) in the upper parts of the province. Rising temperatures combined with recent rainfall have accelerated glacier melting, increasing the possibility of sudden flash floods in mountainous areas. Officials have urged residents living near rivers and streams to remain cautious and stay informed about weather updates.
In response to the developing situation, local administrations in Chitral, Upper Dir, Lower Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra have been placed on high alert. The PDMA has directed district authorities to strengthen monitoring and emergency preparedness measures while keeping a close watch on rivers, streams, and low-lying areas that may be vulnerable to flooding.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast continued unsettled weather conditions across different parts of the country. In the federal capital, partly cloudy skies are expected with temperatures reaching around 34 degrees Celsius and winds of approximately 11 kilometres per hour. Rain and thunderstorms are also likely in Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan, while isolated showers may occur in other northern regions over the coming days.
