More heavy rain likely in Islamabad, Rawalpindi this weekend

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of heavy rain across Islamabad, Rawalpindi

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of heavy rain across Islamabad, Rawalpindi and several parts of the upper country from Thursday to Sunday.

The weather department issued its advisory on Wednesday. It said monsoon currents were moving into the upper regions of the country. A westerly weather system is also affecting these areas. The system is expected to become stronger on September 4 and 5.

According to the forecast, Islamabad and Rawalpindi may receive rain, strong winds and thunderstorms from September 3 to 5. Isolated heavy and very heavy rainfall is also expected during this period.

Several areas of upper Punjab are likely to experience similar weather. These include Murree, the Galliyat region, Jhelum, Chakwal, Attock, Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sheikhupura, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Hafizabad and Kasur.

Other parts of Punjab, including Okara, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal and Dera Ghazi Khan, may also receive thunderstorms and heavy showers between September 4 and 5.

The PMD has warned that the expected rainfall could create urban flooding in low-lying areas. Islamabad and Rawalpindi are among the areas facing a higher risk. Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Lahore could also experience water accumulation during heavy downpours.

The department has also warned of possible flash floods in local streams and nullahs. Areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Murree, Galliyat and the twin cities could be affected.

Residents in hilly areas have been advised to remain particularly careful. The PMD warned that landslides could occur in parts of KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat and Kashmir.

Tourists and travellers have also been urged to exercise caution while travelling through vulnerable areas during the rainy spell.

The latest warning comes after heavy rainfall already caused widespread water accumulation in Rawalpindi and Islamabad earlier this week. Low-lying areas were inundated, while the water level in Leh Nullah also increased.

Rawalpindi witnessed intense showers on Monday and Tuesday. Several roads and streets were flooded after prolonged rainfall. Water accumulated in residential and commercial areas, while a number of cars and motorcycles became stranded.