Rawalpindi/Islamabad: Heavy rainfall lashed Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Sunday, bringing much-needed relief from the intense summer heat and humidity. The downpour transformed the weather across both cities, offering a pleasant break from the prolonged hot spell.
According to the Meteorological Department, the rain began in the early morning hours and continued intermittently throughout the day. In Rawalpindi, significant rainfall was recorded in several areas, with Shamsabad receiving 15 mm and Saidpur in Islamabad recording 27 mm of rain. The showers brought down temperatures considerably and improved overall air quality.
The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) confirmed that water flow in Nullah Lai remained normal despite the heavy rain. WASA also stated that precautionary arrangements had been completed in advance, with teams and machinery already deployed in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
A rain emergency has been declared in Rawalpindi to deal with any potential urban flooding. So far, no major flooding incidents have been reported, though officials remain on high alert.
The rainfall not only broke the intensity of the heatwave but also brought temporary respite from the suffocating humidity that had gripped the twin cities for days. Commuters and residents welcomed the change in weather, with many taking to social media to express their relief and joy.
Meanwhile, in Karachi, light drizzle was reported early in the morning in areas such as I.I. Chundrigar Road, Saddar, and M.A. Jinnah Road. While the drizzle was not substantial, it provided a slight drop in temperatures and momentary comfort for residents.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, hot and humid weather is expected to persist in most parts of the country. However, rain and thunderstorms are likely in Islamabad, upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Kashmir in the coming days. The department also warned of the potential for localized urban flooding in low-lying areas during heavier spells.
Authorities have urged the public to stay informed through weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel during rain spells, especially in flood-prone regions.
The rain has offered a welcome pause in what has been one of the season’s harshest heatwaves, but with more unstable weather forecast ahead, officials remain cautious.
