Heavy rain hit the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Sunday, offering a break from the intense summer heat. The rain started around 5:50pm and lasted for nearly an hour, dropping the temperature to 25°C.
The sudden change in weather was welcomed by residents. However, the downpour also caused water to collect in low-lying areas and created traffic issues on major roads.
The Meteorological Department recorded 12mm of rain in Chaklala, 7mm in Pirwadhai, 4mm in Saidpur, and 9mm in Bokra. Despite the rain, the forecast predicts more hot and humid weather, with chances of isolated showers in the coming days.
Authorities, including Wasa, Civil Defence, and Rescue 1122, were on high alert to handle any emergency situations caused by the heavy rain.
Wasa Managing Director Saleem Ashraf shared that the recent monsoon rains raised water levels in key dams. Rawal Dam’s level increased by 6.2 feet, reaching 1744 feet, while Khanpur Dam rose by one foot to 1921 feet. Their maximum capacities are 1952 feet and 1982 feet, respectively.
These dams, along with Simly Dam, are the main sources of water for the twin cities. If there are no more heavy rains, water shortages may occur, especially in Islamabad and cantonment areas.
Over 500 tubewells in Rawalpindi and 200 in cantonment areas are currently helping meet the water demand. However, more rainfall is essential to keep supply steady.
Rainwater from Sunday’s downpour also raised the level of Leh Nullah to six feet at Kattarian and five feet at Gawalmandi. Wasa has already declared a rain emergency from July to September.
According to the Met Office, more heavy rain is expected due to monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, along with a strong westerly wave.
The department warned of possible flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding in various regions, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, KP, and parts of Balochistan and Punjab.
Officials urge the public to stay alert and avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas during intense rain spells.
Read more: Monsoon Death Toll in Pakistan Reaches 90 Amid Ongoing Heavy Rains – A growing climate concern across the country
