Widespread rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms lashed several regions of Pakistan on Saturday, bringing much-needed relief from heatwaves but also causing power outages, damage to infrastructure, and travel disruptions.
In the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the day began with light drizzle and overcast skies. The Met Department has forecast more rainfall, strong winds, and thunderstorms over the next 24 hours in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum.
As dark clouds loomed over the region, strong winds and hail battered several parts of the capital, causing sudden darkness and prompting emergency responses.
In Bhimber and its surrounding areas in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, rain coupled with strong winds and thunder led to the collapse of several trees, electricity poles, and even the roof of a private marquee. Authorities warned residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
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The Neelum Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir also saw heavy rainfall. The District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) in Muzaffarabad confirmed that the rain in Lower Neelum Valley caused flooding in the Barian nullah. Traffic on the Neelum Highway was suspended, and citizens were advised to avoid travel in mountainous areas due to the risk of landslides.
In Swat, upper regions were pelted with heavy rain and hailstorms, turning roads into waterlogged ponds due to poor drainage systems. Overflowing rivers and canals prompted the district administration to issue a high alert, warning residents of potential flooding.
Further south in Abbottabad, Nathiagali, Ayubia, and Thandiani, heavy rains and thunderstorms brought an end to the persistent heatwave. The pleasant weather was welcomed by residents, although power outages were reported across various areas. The Met Department predicts more rainfall in the coming 24 hours.
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Mansehra, Rawalakot, and Buner experienced similar weather conditions, with strong winds causing damage to power infrastructure, resulting in electricity suspensions in many areas. Despite the inconvenience, residents expressed relief as the weather turned cooler.
Meanwhile, in Karachi, despite the return of sea breezes, heatwave conditions persist. The Met Office noted a low-pressure system in the Arabian Sea, located approximately 1,058 kilometers southeast of Karachi, which could intensify before weakening over the Indian coast. Under the influence of this system, southern Sindh, including Karachi, may see a spike in temperatures, potentially crossing 40°C.
At 34°C currently, Karachi’s temperature is expected to rise to 35–37°C today, with high humidity levels adding to discomfort. The heatwave is likely to continue into the coming days.
Authorities across the affected regions have advised citizens to stay indoors during adverse weather and avoid unnecessary travel.
