Heavy rainfall struck Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Monday, causing traffic disruptions and leading authorities to place emergency response teams on heightened alert. Meanwhile, several areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) are expected to experience rain and thunderstorms in the coming days, while Karachi continues to endure hot and humid weather conditions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department’s latest forecast predicts isolated rain, wind, and thunderstorms across Islamabad, upper Punjab, and KP through Tuesday. In contrast, most southern regions of the country are expected to remain hot and dry during this period.
The Flood Forecasting Division anticipates scattered rain and thunderstorms over Islamabad, upper Punjab, and KP until September 29. River flows at major rim stations are expected to stay within normal limits, minimizing flood risks for now.
The intermittent heavy rain in the twin cities impacted traffic flow on the Islamabad Expressway. Strong winds accompanying the showers caused a tree to fall in Sector G-8, and heavy downpours in Sector F-9 resulted in water accumulation on roads, further complicating movement.
In response, Rawalpindi authorities activated emergency protocols by placing WASA, Rescue 1122, the waste management authority, and other relevant departments on high alert to manage the situation effectively.
WASA Rawalpindi declared a rain emergency, mobilizing all field officers and deploying staff along with heavy machinery to low-lying and vulnerable areas. Managing Director Azizullah Khan stated that Nullah Lai and other major drains were under continuous surveillance. Water levels remained within safe limits, recorded at five feet near Katarian and two feet at the Gowalmandi Bridge.
De-watering pumps and essential equipment were strategically positioned to address water accumulation swiftly. Field teams remained active to drain excess rainwater and provide immediate relief to residents affected by the rainfall.
Rainfall measurements reported by WASA included 24mm in Saidpur, 12mm in Golra, 19mm in Bokra, 19mm at the PMD station, 18mm in Shamsabad, 10mm at Kacheri, 20mm in Pirwadhai, and 4mm in New Katarian.
The weather department forecasts rain and thunderstorms in KP districts such as Peshawar, Mardan, Charsadda, Swabi, and Nowshera. Additional rainfall is expected in Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner, and Malakand.
Moreover, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, and Kurram agencies may experience strong winds and thunderstorms. Rain is also predicted in Orakzai, Hangu, Kohat, Karak, Tank, Lakki Marwat, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, and Waziristan, with hail possible in some upper districts. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority has instructed relevant departments to take precautionary measures in anticipation of these weather conditions.
Following overnight heavy rains, Peshawar experienced partly cloudy skies on Monday, with humidity levels recorded at 75 percent. The weather department expects further rain and thunderstorms in parts of KP in the coming days.
Meanwhile, Karachi’s weather remained hot and humid, with a minimum temperature of 26.5°C and a current temperature of 28°C. Humidity was high at 81 percent, accompanied by southwesterly winds blowing at approximately 11 kilometers per hour. The city is expected to continue experiencing warm and humid conditions, with maximum temperatures forecast between 33°C and 35°C.
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