Hailstorm Ravages Islamabad and Parts of KP, Causing Widespread Damage

A sudden and intense hailstorm struck Islamabad and several areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Wednesday afternoon, leaving behind significant destruction.

The storm, which lasted roughly 35 minutes in the federal capital, brought strong winds and large hailstones that battered vehicles, homes, and infrastructure. Tarnol was among the hardest-hit neighbourhoods, where uprooted trees disrupted traffic and blocked roads.

In Islamabad, numerous cars suffered shattered windscreens, and many solar panels installed on rooftops and carports were damaged or destroyed. The storm also caused broken windows in residential buildings and led to localised flooding due to heavy rainfall.

Power outages were reported in several areas, with authorities working to restore electricity and clear debris.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department had forecast rain, thunderstorms, and hail for Islamabad and northern regions, warning of possible flash floods and landslides in vulnerable locations. The extreme weather event, described by experts as a sign of increasing climate volatility, forced residents to seek shelter quickly as the hailstorm intensified.

Similar weather conditions were reported in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Landikotal and Mardan, where the Provincial Disaster Management Authority remained on alert for potential flooding. While the storm brought temporary relief from the recent heatwave, it also exposed the vulnerability of urban infrastructure and renewable energy installations to sudden severe weather.

Authorities have urged the public to remain cautious during such storms and to avoid standing near trees and electric poles.

The Meteorological Department continues to monitor the situation, forecasting more rain and hail in the coming days across northern Pakistan.

The recent hailstorm underscores the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and climate resilience measures in the region.