ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of rain and thunderstorms across Islamabad and Rawalpindi, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall expected on September 4 and 5.
According to the latest weather advisory, monsoon currents are continuing to penetrate the upper parts of the country, while a westerly wave is also influencing the region and is expected to strengthen during the forecast period.
The weather system is likely to produce rain and thunderstorms in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat and several districts of upper Punjab. Similar weather conditions are expected in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir.
The PMD has warned that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding in low-lying areas of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while flash flooding may occur in local streams and nullahs. Landslides are also possible in vulnerable mountainous areas, particularly in Murree, Galiyat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir.
The latest bulletin from the Flood Forecasting Division has also indicated that river flows in the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab and Ravi are expected to increase moderately between September 4 and 5. Medium to high flows may also develop in several nullahs during the period.
The warning comes after repeated heavy rainfall recently caused water accumulation in low-lying parts of the twin cities and contributed to rising water levels in Nullah Leh, increasing concerns about renewed flooding if another intense spell hits the region.
Authorities have been advised to remain on high alert and take precautionary measures, particularly in flood-prone and vulnerable locations. Relevant departments have also been urged to ensure the availability of emergency response resources and closely monitor drainage channels and nullahs.
The PMD has further advised tourists and travellers to exercise caution while visiting hilly areas, where heavy rainfall may trigger landslides, flash floods and hazardous road conditions.
Residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall and stay away from nullahs, streams and other areas vulnerable to sudden flooding.
