Twin cities soaked by 45mm rain as WASA issue high alert

Officials reported a combined 45 millimetres of rain across the twin cities. Several areas recorded significant rainfall, including 15mm in

ISLAMABAD: Heavy rainfall brought relief from the recent heatwave in Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Tuesday, making the weather considerably cooler and more pleasant while prompting the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) to remain on high alert.

Officials reported a combined 45 millimetres of rain across the twin cities. Several areas recorded significant rainfall, including 15mm in Saidpur, 36mm in Golra, 42mm in Bokra, 34mm in Pirodhai, 36mm in New Katarian and 35mm in Shamsabad.

In Rawalpindi, WASA activated its emergency arrangements following the downpour. Engineers were deployed around Nullah Lai and other low-lying areas to monitor the situation and respond to any risk of urban flooding. Heavy machinery was also kept ready to ensure swift drainage of rainwater.

The water level in Nullah Lai at Katarian reached 8.5 feet, while the level at Gawalmandi Bridge was recorded at around five feet, according to WASA officials.

Authorities have advised relevant field teams to maintain close monitoring of drainage channels and vulnerable areas as further rainfall remains possible.

Meanwhile, weather officials have forecast rain in Karachi today, raising the possibility of similar precautionary measures in parts of Sindh.

The latest spell of rain has provided temporary relief from hot and humid conditions in several areas, while authorities continue to monitor water levels and drainage systems to prevent flooding in vulnerable localities.

Earlier, Islamabad and Rawalpindi received heavy rain accompanied by thunder and lightning, while strong showers were also reported in Swat and Malakand.

The heavy downpour disrupted electricity supply in several areas, leaving residents without power.

Authorities have advised residents living along the banks of the Swat River to move to safer locations as a precautionary measure.

Citizens have also been urged to stay away from rivers, streams and other waterways amid the risk of rising water levels.

Residents have been advised to remain alert and follow official safety instructions as further rain is expected in several areas.

Earlier, The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a weather advisory on Wednesday predicting more rain in the upper regions of the country over the weekend, particularly in the Potohar region and Islamabad.

The Met office said that monsoon currents were penetrating the upper parts of the country, according to the advisory issued at 3pm on Wednesday. It added that a westerly wave was also affecting these regions and likely to strengthen on September 4-5 (Friday and Saturday).

Under the influence of this weather system, it said that rain-wind and thundershowers — with isolated heavy falls — were expected in Kashmir’s Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur from Thursday to Sunday, with occasional gaps.