A spell of light and heavy rainfall has swept through Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore intermittently throughout the night, causing waterlogging in several low-lying areas. Authorities are on high alert, implementing precautionary measures to manage the effects of the ongoing weather conditions.
In Karachi, rain has hit various neighborhoods including M.A. Jinnah Road, Gulistan-e-Johar, Old City Area, Nazimabad, New Karachi, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Landhi, and Korangi. The rainfall has brought a welcome relief from the heat, making the weather more pleasant in the city.
Islamabad and its surrounding areas have also seen periods of heavy rainfall, resulting in a significant drop in temperatures and an overall improvement in weather conditions. Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure public safety.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of the possibility of continued rainfall accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms in the coming days, with potential for heavy downpours in some regions.
Punjab’s districts, including Lahore, have been hit hard by the rains, leading to widespread flooding. An urban flooding alert has been issued for Lahore as rain continues intermittently across Balochistan, including Quetta.
In the Indus River basin, the Guddu Barrage is currently experiencing medium-level flooding, with an inflow of 422,038 cusecs and an outflow of 401,243 cusecs. The Sukkur Barrage is facing low-level flooding, with an inflow of 355,630 cusecs and an outflow of 315,830 cusecs. The situation at the Kotri Barrage remains normal for now.
Thousands of acres of riverine land have been submerged due to the rising water levels in the Indus River. Residents in riverine areas are actively relocating to drier locations, using boats to move themselves and their livestock. Fishermen have also moved their boats to shore as a precaution.
Despite the current challenges, the Irrigation Department has reassured the public that the situation is under control and poses no immediate danger. However, the situation remains fluid, and authorities continue to monitor developments closely.