A severe windstorm swept through Peshawar on Saturday, leading to the loss of three lives and leaving at least a dozen people injured. The storm caused widespread destruction, damaging infrastructure and knocking out power in large parts of the city.
Tragedy struck at the old vegetable market near Ghanta Ghar when a massive branch from an old tree fell, killing two cousins who worked as vendors.
The impact also damaged nearby shops. In another heartbreaking incident, a six-year-old child from a nomadic family lost his life when a wall collapsed on him in Rano Garhi.
The powerful gusts toppled trees, walls, and signboards across various neighbourhoods, including Afghan Colony, Asad Anwar Colony, and Rano Garhi. Emergency services responded quickly, rushing the injured to local hospitals.
Power supply was heavily affected as the storm caused 110 feeders in the PESCO grid to trip. Several power lines were cut and poles brought down, plunging many areas into darkness.
According to a PESCO spokesperson, while multiple grid stations were disrupted, repair teams worked tirelessly to restore electricity in the most affected parts.
Earlier in the day, the city experienced intense heat. By late afternoon, dark clouds rolled in, followed by a short spell of rain and then powerful winds, which brought life to a halt.
The storm also impacted neighbouring districts, including Khyber, Swat, Mardan, Swabi, Abbottabad, and Mansehra.
Deputy Commissioner Peshawar, Saleem Akram, confirmed the fatalities and injuries, noting that emergency measures were quickly put in place to handle the situation.
Authorities are closely watching the weather and have urged residents to stay alert as forecasts suggest more unstable conditions ahead.