Heavy Rain Brings Relief to Twin Cities, Boosts Dam Water Levels
RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD – A refreshing spell of heavy rain brought much-needed relief to residents of Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Sunday, lowering temperatures and raising water levels in key reservoirs.
The rainfall, which began around 5:50 PM and lasted for an hour, dropped temperatures to a pleasant 25°C, offering a welcome break from the recent heat and humidity.
Dams Replenished by Monsoon Showers
Officials reported a notable rise in water levels at Rawal and Khanpur dams following the recent monsoon activity. According to Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Managing Director Saleem Ashraf, rainfall between June 25 and July 13 raised the Rawal Dam by 6.2 feet and Khanpur Dam by one foot.
“More rain is expected, and we’re hopeful the dams will reach capacity soon,” said Ashraf.
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Rawal Dam: Current level – 1744 ft | Max – 1952 ft
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Khanpur Dam: Current level – 1921 ft | Max – 1982 ft
These reservoirs, along with Simly Dam, supply water to both Islamabad and Rawalpindi. In total, there are over 700 tubewells supporting the water needs of the twin cities.
Weather Forecast: More Rain On the Way
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast continued hot and humid weather with chances of scattered rain in the coming days, as monsoon currents continue to enter from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.
Rainfall totals recorded on Sunday:
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Chaklala: 12mm
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Pirwadhai: 7mm
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Saidpur: 4mm
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Bokra: 9mm
Officials remain on high alert, with WASA, Rescue 1122, and Civil Defence monitoring key areas. A rain emergency has been imposed through September.
Urban Flooding & Safety Advisory
Despite the cooling effect, rainwater accumulated in low-lying areas, causing puddles and traffic disruption on main roads. WASA teams were deployed for drainage operations, especially in flood-prone zones.
Water in Leh Nullah rose to six feet at Kattarian and five feet at Gawalmandi, triggering urban flood warnings.
The Met Office has issued alerts for potential flash floods, landslides, and urban flooding in the following areas:
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Murree, Galliyat, Swat, Mansehra, Abbottabad, and Chitral
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Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Peshawar
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Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Balochistan
Residents in vulnerable regions are advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel in hilly areas, and stay updated through official weather alerts.
