Met Office forecasts rain for twin cities in next three hours

ISLAMABAD: The Met Office has forecast rainfall in Islamabad and Rawalpindi during the next three hours, warning that a weather system is developing over the Margalla Hills which may bring thunder and showers to the twin cities.

The Met Office has advised citizens to exercise caution during the rain.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert for travellers in northern parts of the country in light of possible weather-related disruptions.

According to the NDMA, several roads in the northern areas have been damaged by landslides and flooding.

In Shyok, the bridge over the Saltoro River has been affected, blocking the route.

On the Jaglot–Skardu Road, the Astak bridge was damaged, restricting traffic to one-way flow.

Roads from Dain to Ghizer, as well as Shandur, Khalti, Dain and Ishkoman routes, have also been severely affected and remain closed to traffic.

The Kargil–Skardu Road and routes to Shigar via Thangul Nala are also completely shut, while traffic has been suspended on the Gilgit–Naltar Road.

However, some roads have been reopened following restoration work, including the Sarmo Bridge in Ghanche, Baghicha Road in Skardu, Gulmit–Gojal Road, Guro Road and Chilm Road.

The NDMA has advised travellers to avoid visiting affected areas in the northern parts and refrain from using unsafe or alternate passages.

Meanwhile, the NDMA has warned of heavy rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters or more in parts of Sindh over the next 12 to 24 hours, raising concerns over urban flooding, waterlogging and disruption to daily life.

In Karachi, at least seven people have died since the rains began in the southern port city on Tuesday, Reuters quoted provincial government spokesperson Abdul Wahid Halepoto as saying. Rainfall reached levels not seen in years in some parts of the city, Pakistan’s largest, with a population of more than 20 million.

A spokesman for the NDMA has advised residents in vulnerable areas — including Karachi,
Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur, and adjoining regions — to remain alert and closely monitor official updates to mitigate potential hazards.

Urban flooding is expected to persist in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Mirpurkhas due to continued downpours and poor drainage infrastructure.

Simultaneously, districts such as Thatta, Badin, Jamshoro, and Dadu could face an elevated risk of flash flooding.

Rising water levels in the Indus River and its tributaries may inundate low-lying areas, prompting fears of widespread disruption.

Major highways and local roads could be submerged, severely affecting traffic and daily routines across the region.

In anticipation of flooding, authorities have urged residents to relocate valuables and livestock to safer locations.

Households are advised to prepare emergency kits with essential supplies, including food, water, medicines, and first aid. Extreme caution is recommended when handling electrical appliances, and submerged roads or electric poles should be strictly avoided.

Disruptions in power and telecom services are likely. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through verified official sources and adhere to safety guidelines issued by local authorities.