Islamabad Residents Put on Alert Over Flash Flood Risk

A new spell of monsoon rains has raised a serious flash flood risk in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Authorities have warned residents living near vulnerable areas, especially in the Margalla Hills, Saidpur village, and Sector E-11, to take strict safety precautions. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued detailed advisories to help communities prepare for both flooding and landslides.

CDA Issues Safety Warnings

The CDA directed residents in Saidpur village and Sector E-11 to remain vigilant as heavy rain continues. Rising water levels in Korang Nallah and the Swan River pose direct threats to nearby settlements. Citizens living close to storm drains have been told to stay cautious and limit unnecessary movement during downpours.

Officials stressed that residents must avoid throwing garbage into storm drains. Blocked drains worsen flooding, and simple precautions can prevent major damage. By keeping water channels clear, communities can reduce risks and give rescue teams more time to act.

Landslides in Margalla Hills

Heavy rainfall in the Margalla Hills often leads to landslides. With the new monsoon spell, the risk has increased significantly. Officials warned that mud and rocks could slip down slopes, damaging houses and blocking roads in nearby localities.

Read: Punjab Flooding Worsens as Monsoon Rains Continue

Low-lying neighborhoods are also at risk from sudden flooding caused by overflowing drains. The CDA advised residents to move valuables and essential items to higher places. They also urged families to prepare emergency kits in case of sudden evacuation.

Emergency Services on Standby

CDA teams, along with Rescue 1122, Metropolitan Police, and the Municipal Services Directorate, have been placed on high alert. A CDA spokesperson confirmed that machinery, rescue vehicles, and medical teams are already deployed at key points.

The agencies are ready to provide immediate support if flooding or landslides occur. Teams have also been instructed to keep communication lines open with local communities. Authorities say this readiness is crucial for saving lives and minimizing losses.

Cooperation from Citizens

The CDA appealed for strong community cooperation. Officials urged residents to follow safety instructions, avoid dangerous areas, and report any blocked water channels. “This is a critical time,” a CDA spokesperson said. “Citizens must play their role by ensuring drains are not obstructed and by cooperating fully with rescue workers.”

Residents have also been told to avoid unnecessary travel, especially near hilly areas and low-lying settlements. Even small water flows can become dangerous during intense downpours.

Weather Forecast for Islamabad

The Meteorological Department forecast intermittent rain in Islamabad for the coming days. Officials said heavy downpours could intensify flooding threats. Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Jhelum, Attock, Chakwal, and Gujrat are also expected to receive thunderstorms.

Thunderstorms and showers are likely to continue across Punjab. Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Sheikhupura, Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Faisalabad, and Jhang are among the districts expected to experience heavy rain. Toba Tek Singh, Sargodha, and Khushab are also on alert.

In South Punjab, rainfall is likely in Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Multan, Layyah, Bhakkar, and Mianwali. Officials warned that strong winds may accompany these showers, increasing risks of damage to weaker structures.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Alert

The weather department predicted intense rainfall for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well. Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, and Mansehra are expected to receive heavy showers. These areas, already prone to flash floods, are at high risk of landslides and overflowing rivers.

Further rainfall is also expected in Buner, Abbottabad, Haripur, Malakand, and Bajaur. Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Kohat, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Dera Ismail Khan, and Waziristan will also see wet conditions. Officials urged residents to prepare for possible road blockages and sudden surges of water.

Rain in Sindh

Sindh will remain humid and partly cloudy. However, the Meteorological Department warned of rainfall in several districts. Tharparkar, Umarkot, Mithi, Thatta, Hyderabad, and Badin are likely to see showers. Rain is also expected in Dadu, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Larkana, and Jacobabad.

Local administrations have been instructed to monitor urban flooding risks in low-lying areas. Heavy rain in these districts could lead to waterlogging, especially where drainage systems are weak.

Safety Comes First

As Islamabad and surrounding areas face renewed flash flood risk, authorities are prioritizing preparedness and public awareness. Rescue teams remain stationed across key points, and weather departments continue to issue regular updates.

Citizens, meanwhile, have been told to take early precautions, stay connected to official advisories, and assist one another in emergencies. With strong cooperation between communities and rescue services, the impact of heavy rains can be reduced, and lives can be safeguarded.