The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a weather advisory warning of continued thunderstorms and light rain across Punjab until April 20.

The alert follows a deadly spell of inclement weather that claimed the lives of nine citizens and left five others injured.

According to a PDMA spokesperson, two fatalities were reported in Layyah and Kot Addu due to lightning strikes, while two houses were partially damaged by the windstorm. In light of the recent casualties, the PDMA has urged residents to exercise caution during weather fluctuations.

Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has instructed all commissioners, deputy commissioners, and rescue teams to remain on high alert. PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that both the Provincial Control Room and District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated and are monitoring the situation round the clock.

“All personnel, including machinery from Rescue 1122 and other emergency services, should be on standby,” DG Kathia stated. He also urged citizens to stay indoors during stormy conditions and avoid going near electric poles or exposed wiring.

“Stay in safe shelters to protect yourselves from lightning. Never go out under an open sky when thunderstorm activity is expected,” he warned. The PDMA DG reminded the public that lightning killed 30 people in Punjab during April last year.

Also Read: Heavy rain, hailstorm forecast for Islamabad, Punjab on April 18–19

Special instructions were also issued for the protection of children, advising parents to keep them away from weak or abandoned structures. In case of emergencies, the public is urged to contact PDMA’s helpline at 1129.

On the other hand, the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) has issued a weather alert warning of heavy rain, hailstorms, and strong winds in several districts of Islamabad and Punjab on April 18 and 19.

The alert was issued in coordination with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), cautioning residents about possible severe weather conditions.

According to the advisory, heavy rainfall and hail are expected in parts of Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Gujrat, and Jhelum. The NDMA also identified districts including Faisalabad, Jhang, Khushab, Mianwali, Lahore, Sahiwal, Sargodha, and Sheikhupura as potentially vulnerable to strong winds and hailstorms.