The southwest region of Pakistan was hit hard by exceptionally high rains last week, killing at least 39 people. Authorities reported that lightning struck some of the victims while they were picking wheat.
Lightning may inflict many different injuries, including aches and pains, fractures, heart attacks, disorientation, diminished hearing, seizures, burns, altered behavior, cataracts in the eyes, and death.
Traces of flooded fields are seen in internet images. Flash floods have impacted transportation networks and electricity.
Reports show the current storms have again struck some regions ravaged by the floods in 2022, such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Over 1,700 people were killed, and many were injured in 2022 when portions of the country were flooded. Even months later, millions of people still didn’t have access to safe drinking water.
The National Disaster Management Authority has warned of landslides and flash floods due to the increased likelihood of rainfall in the days ahead.
Reports show the largest number of casualties has been recorded in Pakistan’s most populous state, Punjab, where 21 people were killed by lightning last weekend.
Reports indicate that a state of emergency has been imposed in the westernmost province of Balochistan, where at least eight people have been killed. Schools were closed for several days throughout the province.
Rainwater has covered vast portions of the seaside village of Pasni, making it look like a vast lake. Flash floods have reached residential properties and commercial areas.
Afghanistan, a neighboring country, has also recorded heavy floods. In several days, hundreds of houses were damaged or destroyed, and at least 33 people were killed, according to Afghan police. Additionally, 27 others were wounded.
Reports reveal that more than 1,975 acres of farmland were submerged, 200 animals were killed, and 600 homes were either severely damaged or destroyed by the floods. Furthermore, almost 370 miles of roadways have sustained damage.
