Islamabad and Rawalpindi declare rain emergency after heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall lashed the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi on September 28, 2026, causing traffic disruptions and prompting authorities to declare a rain emergency in Rawalpindi. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has mobilized field staff and heavy machinery to low-lying areas, deploying de-watering pumps to manage accumulated rainwater.

Authorities, including Rescue 1122 and waste management departments, are on high alert. Officials are continuously monitoring Nullah Lai and other major drains; water levels at Katarian were reported at five feet, while the Gowalmandi Bridge recorded two feet, with flows remaining within normal limits. Rainfall measurements included 24mm in Saidpur and 20mm in Pirwadhai.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast continued rain and thunderstorms across Islamabad, upper Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through September 29. Additional thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds are possible in districts such as Peshawar, Mardan, Charsadda, Swabi, and Nowshera.