Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms lashed various parts of Punjab, including Lahore breaking the heatwave but disrupting power supply in several areas.

Areas such as Gulberg, Kalma Chowk, Laxmi Chowk, Johar Town, and Cantt were hit by intense rain and lightning. Similar weather conditions were reported in Okara, Sahiwal, Mureedke, Pattoki, and Jaranwala, where multiple feeders tripped, plunging neighborhoods into darkness.

Highest rainfall recorded

According to the Meteorological Department, Lahore recorded 19.5 mm of rain overall, with the highest rainfall — 38 mm — reported in Gulshan Ravi, followed by 36 mm in Gulberg, 35 mm in Samanabad, and 34 mm in Iqbal Town.

Residents described a dramatic shift in weather as strong winds swept through the city, followed by heavy downpour and thunderclaps. The rain brought much-needed relief from the scorching temperatures that had gripped the region for days.

Rain reported in multiple Punjab cities

Heavy and moderate rain was also recorded in Mianwali, Okara, Tandlianwala, Renala Khurd, Ferozewala, Khanqan Dogran, Jaranwala, Phalia, and Phull Nagar.

In Ferozewala, the rain was accompanied by thunder and lightning, with residents reporting instant power outages as LESCO feeders tripped. Several parts of the city were left without electricity for hours.

“The heatwave broke as soon as the rain started. The weather turned pleasant instantly,” said a resident of Ferozewala.

Met department forecasts more rain

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more heavy rain in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the coming days.

The department also warned of possible flooding in rivers and canals of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, urging tourists and travelers to exercise caution.

Meanwhile, Kalam valley received its first snowfall of the winter, adding to the scenic beauty of the region and drawing visitors from nearby areas.

Power supply disruptions

The rain caused technical faults in several areas as multiple feeders of the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) tripped, leading to temporary suspension of power supply in parts of Lahore and other cities.

Restoration efforts were underway late into the night, though many areas remained in darkness due to continued rainfall and safety precautions taken by the power utility.