A new wave of monsoon rains has swept across several regions of Pakistan, offering much-needed relief from the intense summer heat but also triggering concerns about urban flooding and rising river levels.
In Lahore, heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder hit several areas including Harbanspura, Taj Bagh, Jail Road, Gulberg, Canal Road, and Mall Road. The downpour brought a significant dip in temperature, resulting in a pleasant change in weather conditions.
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The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast off-and-on rain throughout the day and warned of possible water accumulation in low-lying areas. Urban flooding remains a key concern.
In the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, heavy showers were recorded early Wednesday morning. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Rawalpindi has been placed on high alert, with emergency teams and heavy machinery stationed in flood-prone areas. “We are closely monitoring all vulnerable spots and are fully prepared to respond,” said WASA’s Managing Director.
Rainfall has also led to a noticeable rise in water levels at Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam. WASA officials noted this has positively impacted the city’s clean water supply, although the risk of overflow is under review.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the Shewuk River has swelled significantly, putting the main Siachen Road at risk of flooding. Authorities have warned that continued water level rise could threaten nearby residential areas.
The PMD has issued weather advisories for other parts of Punjab including Jaranwala, Phulingar, and Nankana Sahib, where both light and intense rain showers have been reported. In Khanqah Dogran, a thunderstorm disrupted electricity supply in various neighborhoods.
Several localities in Lahore—such as Model Town, Garden Town, Faisal Town, Township, Johar Town, and Kalma Chowk—experienced consistent rainfall. The weather department expects the showers to persist for the next 24 hours, potentially complicating urban drainage efforts despite the cooler temperatures.
Punjab’s Chief Minister has issued directives to WASA Lahore to ensure that all underpasses and main roads stay clear of water. The Managing Director of WASA Lahore has instructed staff to keep all pumping stations functional and to deploy generators where power outages occur.
Meanwhile, in parts of Sindh and Balochistan, the weather remains largely hot and humid. However, the Met Office has not ruled out the possibility of isolated showers in upper and central regions of the country.
District administrations across affected regions have been told to stay alert, with emergency measures already active in several cities. Authorities are also advising the public to avoid non-essential travel, particularly in areas vulnerable to flooding.
