Rain continues to pour over parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, accompanied by thunderstorms and showers predicted across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Balochistan in the coming 24 hours. This weather pattern remains active throughout the region.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) noted that rainfall began early in the morning around 4:20 am in the twin cities. Recorded precipitation included 21 millimeters in Saidpur, 20 millimeters near Golra, and 3 millimeters in Sector H-8/2. Water levels in Nullah Lai rose to 4.5 feet at Katarian and 2 feet at Gawalmandi, though the PMD confirmed the situation remains stable with continuous monitoring underway.
Heavy rain also affected several areas of Swabi, while Lower Dir experienced intense showers along with thunderstorms and hail, providing much-needed relief from recent high temperatures.
In a significant development, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) had issued a warning on September 2 about a fresh spell of heavy rainfall expected in Islamabad and Rawalpindi starting September 4. The alert highlighted the possibility of flooding in vulnerable zones. NDMA senior official Tayyab Shah indicated that rainfall is likely to persist across much of Pakistan until September 7, with northern regions facing an elevated flood risk due to a combination of rain and glacier melt. This warning followed additional rain in the twin cities, where an average of 16 millimeters was recorded on September 2.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department forecasts strong winds, thunderstorms, and rainfall across multiple parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner, and Malakand. Additional rain is expected in Upper Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, and Waziristan.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has cautioned that heavy rains could trigger flash floods and landslides in some of the province’s upper districts. Relevant departments have been instructed to finalize precautionary measures promptly.
In upper Balochistan, stormy rain is forecast over the next 24 hours, with Zhob, Musakhel, Barkhan, Sherani, and Khuzdar among the areas expected to receive significant rainfall. The PDMA warned that strong downpours might damage vulnerable structures and solar panels.
Authorities have issued safety advisories, directing all relevant institutions to remain vigilant and implement emergency safety protocols. Residents are advised to stay in secure locations during heavy rains and strong winds, while farmers are encouraged to adjust their agricultural activities the prevailing weather conditions. Furthermore, officials have been instructed to prepare for potential flash floods, landslides, and other weather-related emergencies in susceptible areas.
