Rain continues in Islamabad as showers forecast for KP, Balochistan

ISLAMABAD: Rain continues to lash parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with thunderstorms and showers forecast for several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Balochistan over the next 24 hours as the spell persists across the region.

Rain began in the twin cities early in the morning around 4:20am, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). The department recorded 21 millimetres of rain in Saidpur, 20mm near Golra and 3mm in Sector H-8/2. Water levels in Nullah Lai reached 4.5 feet at Katarian and two feet at Gawalmandi. The PMD said the current situation at Nullah Lai remained clear and that the water level was being continuously monitored.

Several areas of Swabi also received heavy rain, while Lower Dir experienced heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms and hail, bringing relief from the recent heat.

On September 2, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warned that a fresh spell of heavy rain was expected in Islamabad and Rawalpindi from September 4, with the possibility of flooding in vulnerable areas. NDMA senior official Tayyab Shah had said rainfall was forecast to continue across much of Pakistan until September 7, while northern areas faced a heightened flood risk because of rain and glacier melt. The warning followed further rainfall in the twin cities, where an average of 16mm was recorded on September 2.

Rain, thunderstorms forecast in KP

The Meteorological Department has forecast strong winds, thunderstorms and rain in several parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Buner and Malakand.

Rain is also expected in Upper Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber and Waziristan.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned that heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods and landslides in some upper districts of the province. Relevant departments have been directed to complete precautionary measures in advance.

Heavy rain likely in upper Balochistan

The PDMA has forecast stormy rainfall in upper Balochistan during the next 24 hours, with Zhob, Musakhel, Barkhan, Sherani and Khuzdar among the areas expected to receive rain.

The authority warned that heavy downpours could damage weak structures and solar panels.

Authorities issue safety advisory

The PDMA has directed all relevant institutions to remain alert and take emergency safety measures in response to the forecast.

Residents have been advised to remain in safe locations during heavy rain and strong winds, while farmers have been urged to plan agricultural activities according to prevailing weather conditions.

Authorities have also been instructed to remain prepared for possible flash floods, landslides and other weather-related incidents in vulnerable areas.