A powerful wind storm swept through Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, killing four people and injuring at least 24 others in Bannu district.
The severe weather damaged homes, shops and boundary walls across several areas. Rescue officials said collapsing structures trapped many residents under debris during the storm.
Authorities launched emergency rescue and relief operations as hospitals across the district moved to high alert.
Storm causes deaths and widespread destruction
Officials confirmed that four people died after roofs and walls collapsed during the storm.
The victims included Balqiaz Khan, son of Malik Nawaz, from Mughal Khel Bharat. Three women from the same family in Jhando Khel also lost their lives.
Several cattle were also killed as strong winds and debris swept through residential areas and farmland.
Dozens injured across multiple localities
Rescue 1122 said at least 24 people suffered injuries in different parts of Bannu and nearby areas.
The injured included residents from Wrishem Khel, Kot Brara, Zargar Mama Khel, Salam Gul Kala Mandan, Shah Deo, Nasri Bharot, Jhando Khel and Lucky Marwat.
Emergency teams pulled victims from collapsed structures before transferring them to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities declare emergency in hospitals
Bannu Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Fahim Khan visited hospitals to check on the injured and inspect the damaged areas.
The district administration declared an emergency in government hospitals operating under the Medical Teaching Institution Bannu.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Secretary Shahid Khan directed hospitals to maintain medicine supplies, emergency medical services and fully operational ambulance support.
Rescue and relief efforts continue
Rescue 1122 deployed additional ambulances and rescue teams after receiving a large number of emergency calls.
Authorities said damage assessments were still underway while relief operations continued in affected neighborhoods.
Chief Minister Sohail Afridi expressed condolences to the victims’ families and said the provincial government would provide immediate assistance and support to those affected.
