QUETTA: Torrential rains coupled with hailstorms have struck several districts in Balochistan, resulting in at least two fatalities and extensive damage to crops and property, officials reported on Thursday.
The Meteorological Department confirmed that the deaths occurred in Kech District due to rain-related incidents. Separate cases of roof collapses in Kohlu and Harnai districts left two individuals, including a young girl, injured. Rescue teams shifted the injured to nearby medical facilities for treatment.
Intense rainfall and hail triggered flash floods in local streams across areas including Kharan, Turbat, Noshki, and Panjgur. Mud houses sustained damage, while rural link roads were disrupted, hampering connectivity in remote communities. Farmers have reported concerns over submerged agricultural lands and potential crop losses.
In Quetta, intermittent rain since the previous night has overwhelmed the city’s drainage system. Blocked drains caused water accumulation on roads, leading to severe traffic congestion and difficulties for commuters, with residents in low-lying neighborhoods reporting water entering homes.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) stated that all relevant departments are on high alert, with rescue teams ready to respond to emergencies. Authorities said the situation in affected districts is under constant monitoring.
In Mastung District, continuous rainfall prompted officials to ban picnicking at tourist and mountainous spots including Aab Gul, Ghulam Padeenaz, and Aamaach due to safety risks. Citizens were advised to avoid non-essential travel and follow precautionary measures, with warnings that violations could attract legal consequences.
The Meteorological Department forecast additional rainfall and thunderstorms in districts such as Chaman, Zhob, Sherani, and Bolan over the coming days, with a possibility of hail in some areas. The current weather spell is expected to last until March 29.
Rainfall totals over the past 24 hours included 36mm in Pasni, 19mm in Ormara, and 11mm in Pishin, with light showers in other areas including Quetta and Zhob. Minimum temperatures ranged from 6°C in Ziarat to 23°C in Jiwani, with Quetta and Kalat at 9°C and coastal areas like Gwadar at 22°C.
Experts have attributed the severity of these recent weather events to climate change, highlighting the urgent need for better urban planning, resilient infrastructure, and efficient drainage systems to reduce future risks.
