Islamabad, Feb 20: After nearly four months of dry conditions, Islamabad and Rawalpindi experienced long-awaited heavy rainfall on Wednesday night, providing much-needed relief amid a worsening water crisis.
Relief Amid Water Shortage
The prolonged drought had severely impacted groundwater levels, leading the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) to declare an emergency in the twin cities earlier this week. The recent rain brought temporary relief, improving water availability and easing concerns of an escalating crisis.
Rainfall Statistics
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), various parts of Islamabad recorded significant rainfall:
- Bokra: 19mm
- H-8: 22mm
- Shamsabad: 20mm
- Chaklala: 18mm
The intermittent showers that began at night continued until morning, significantly improving the weather. PMD forecasts predict additional rainfall over the next three days, raising hopes for further improvement in water levels.
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Met Office Predicts Rain and Snowfall Across Northern Pakistan
Impact of Prolonged Dry Spell
The extended dry weather had contributed to the spread of viral infections in Rawalpindi, in addition to worsening groundwater depletion. Meanwhile, Kashmir’s Nikial region also saw an end to its prolonged drought with the recent rainfall.
Rainfall Across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Several regions in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also received rainfall after a long gap. Cities such as Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat, and Hafizabad reported light to heavy showers, creating a winter-like atmosphere. Gujranwala and its surrounding areas continued to experience showers, while Kamalia and nearby regions saw intermittent rainfall, leading to a notable drop in temperatures.
Bajaur received light rain since last evening, with more showers predicted in the district. Lower Dir experienced heavy rainfall, while the upper areas—including Shahi, Banshahi, Kalpani, and Laram Top—were blanketed in snow. Power outages affected several locations, including Munda, Samarbagh, and Maidan, causing difficulties for residents.
Snowfall in Northern Regions
Murree and Galiyat saw fresh snowfall, attracting tourists. The PMD also forecast rain, snowfall, and possible hailstorms in upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir has been experiencing continuous snowfall, covering areas such as Jagran Valley, Upper Neelum, and Lawat Bala in a thick white blanket.
Warnings for Tourists
The PMD has warned of potential landslides and avalanches in hilly areas, including Murree, Galliyat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary journeys in affected regions.
