Heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past three days have caused widespread destruction, killing 18 people and injuring 72, including women and children.

Incidents of roof and wall collapse were reported in many districts, including Abbottabad, Bannu, North Waziristan, Lakki Marwat, Havelian and Nowshera.

Nine houses were destroyed, while 51 others suffered partial damage.

Authorities have warned that the rains, expected to continue till April 4, may trigger the bursting of upper glacial lakes.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued alerts to the administrations of five affected districts.

Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures amid ongoing rainfall and potential flooding.