Lahore: Tornadoes and gale caused havoc in various parts of the country including Punjab, trees were uprooted at dozens of places, roofs collapsed, 10 people lost their lives while more than 50 people were injured. The Meteorological Department had already predicted severe weather conditions, but safety measures were not taken in time in most districts. After the storm in Lahore, the power system across the city was affected due to heavy rain and there was a complete blackout in many areas. Several booths were blown away near Gaddafi Stadium and searchlight poles were knocked down.
According to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, most of the deaths were due to the collapse of old houses and the presence of people in unsafe shelters. A dangerous increase in the level of Nala Lai was seen in Rawalpindi, after which a rain emergency was imposed. Motorway M-2 had to be temporarily closed due to torrential rain in Chakwal.
According to the official spokesperson, immediate financial assistance will be provided to the affected families under the policy of the Punjab government. Meteorologists say that there is a possibility of more rains in the coming days, so citizens have been instructed to take precautionary measures.
