Severe Weather Causes Devastation in Pakistan
Lightning and heavy rains have resulted in the tragic loss of at least 49 lives across Pakistan over the past three days. The situation has prompted authorities in the country’s southwest to declare a state of emergency.
Impact of the Severe Weather
- Deaths caused by lightning strikes during wheat harvesting
- Collapse of dozens of houses in northwest and eastern provinces
- 21 fatalities in Punjab, with more rain expected
- 21 deaths in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province
- Seven casualties in southwestern Baluchistan province
Response and Relief Efforts
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed authorities to provide relief aid to those affected by the severe weather. He also mentioned that the country’s water reservoirs would benefit from the recent rains.
Expert Opinion on Climate Change
Pakistani environmental expert Rafay Alam highlighted the unusual nature of heavy rainfall in April, attributing it to climate change. He referenced the devastating floods in 2022 that claimed numerous lives and caused significant damage to the country.
Flooding in Afghanistan
Meanwhile, seasonal rains in Afghanistan have led to heavy flooding, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of property. The Taliban’s spokesman for the State Ministry for Natural Disaster Management provided details on the impact of the flooding in the country.
