ISLAMABAD – A rain emergency has been declared in Rawalpindi after massive hailstorm and heavy rainfall with strong winds in twin cities.
MD WASA, Muhammad Saleem Ashraf, stated that heavy rain with strong winds occurred in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, due to which a rain emergency has been declared in the Garrison city.
Heavy rainfall in Islamabad and surrounding areas, water level in Nullah Lai reaches 21 feet
According to the WASA spokesperson, 29 mm of rain was recorded in Shamsabad, 30 mm in PMD, and 10 mm in Golra. After the rainfall, WASA staff is present in the field with heavy machinery.
He added that the water flow in Nullah Lai is still normal. At Katarian, the water level is 5 feet and at Gawalmandi Bridge, it is 4 feet.
A day earlier, National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an impact based weather alert predicting isolated showers, thunderstorms, windstorms, and dust storms over the next 12 to 36 hours in various parts of Punjab, Islamabad, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
In Punjab and Islamabad, the affected areas may include Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Mianwali, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Lahore, Narowal, and adjoining regions.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, isolated rainfall, windstorm, thunderstorm, and dust storm are expected in different parts of the province including Chitral, Battagram, Kohistan, Kohat, Kurram, Bannu, Mardan, Peshawar, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Dera Ismail Khan, Bajaur, Mohmand, and surrounding areas over the next 12 to 36 hours.
These weather conditions are likely to bring temporary relief from the prevailing heatwave. However, strong winds and thunderstorms may uproot weak trees and cause temporary power outages. Dust storms may damage fragile structures, rooftops, vehicles, and electrical infrastructure. Reduced visibility during storms may increase the risk of road accidents.
NDMA advises the public to avoid trees, billboards, and other unstable structures during storms. Park vehicles in secure, covered locations and minimize outdoor movement. To stay informed about the latest weather updates before traveling, download and use the “Pak NDMA Alert App.”
