Introduction: A Welcome Shift in Weather

As monsoon season sweeps across Pakistan, the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi have finally experienced a much-needed break from the scorching summer heat. Over the past several days, heavy rainfall has not only cooled down the temperature but also significantly boosted the water levels in key reservoirs—Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam.

This shift brings both relief and concern: while it eases the pressure on water scarcity and agriculture, it also raises the risk of urban flooding and potential overflow situations if rain persists. This article dives deep into the effects, responses, and future implications of this change in weather for the region.

Weather Update – Relief from the Heat Wave

Rainfall Intensity and Duration

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), Islamabad and Rawalpindi received over 70mm of rain in a 24-hour period. The rainfall began late at night and continued intermittently for several days, turning the city’s climate from humid and oppressive to cool and refreshing.

• Maximum temperatures dropped from 38°C to 29°C
• Humidity levels increased, reaching 80%
• Wind speeds remained moderate at around 20 km/h

Water Levels Rise in Rawal and Khanpur Dams

Rawal Dam Sees Critical Boost

Located in the Margalla Hills National Park, Rawal Dam is a crucial water supply source for Rawalpindi city. The recent rain has added over 4 feet of water to its reservoir.

• Pre-rain level: 1,741 feet
• Post-rain level: 1,745.3 feet (near full capacity)
• Maximum capacity: 1,752 feet

Khanpur Dam Inches Toward Full Capacity

Khanpur Dam, located on the Haro River and serving Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and parts of Attock and Haripur, also experienced a significant rise in its water level.

• Pre-rain level: 1,960 feet
• Post-rain level: 1,969 feet
• Maximum capacity: 1,982 feet

Positive Impacts of Rainfall

1. Cooling Urban Temperatures

The immediate and most noticeable effect is the drop in temperature, offering much-needed respite from summer heat. This has reduced:

• Power consumption due to lower use of air conditioners
• Heat-related illnesses in hospitals
• Heat stress in outdoor workers and animals

2. Improved Water Supply

With dams filling up, water supply to urban areas is expected to improve in the coming weeks.

• Better pressure and flow in water lines
• Reduced need for water tankers
• Delay in water rationing plans

3. Agricultural Relief

The rain has provided a natural irrigation boost for crops such as:

• Rice
• Maize
• Cotton
• Sugarcane

Challenges and Risks Post-Rainfall

1. Urban Flooding and Traffic Chaos

While the rain brought relief, it also caused significant waterlogging in low-lying areas.

• Main roads like Murree Road, Saddar, and Faizabad were flooded
• WASA received over 150 emergency calls in a single day
• Multiple traffic jams reported across both cities

2. Overflow and Dam Monitoring

With water levels rising rapidly, the threat of dam overflow or emergency releases becomes real, especially if more rain is expected.

3. Vector-Borne Diseases

Standing water can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue fever and malaria.

Government and Civic Response

WASA and Rescue Services on High Alert

WASA, in coordination with Rescue 1122, has set up emergency teams equipped with water pumps, dewatering machines, and emergency vehicles. They are on standby in 24/7 shifts to respond to any urgent flooding or drainage issues.

Public Advisory Issued

Authorities have issued these public safety guidelines:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours
• Stay away from low-lying or flood-prone areas
• Keep emergency kits and mobile power backups ready
• Use clean water for drinking to avoid waterborne diseases

Future Forecast and Climate Outlook

According to the PMD, more rain is expected in the next 5–7 days, especially in northern Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The risk of flash floods in hill torrents remains high.

Public Reactions and Community Response

The public’s reaction to the rainfall has been mostly positive. Social media hashtags include #IslamabadRain and #MonsoonMagic.

“After weeks of unbearable heat, this rain feels like a blessing.” — Ayesha Rizwan, Islamabad Resident

“The roads are flooded, but at least we’re not roasting anymore.” — Junaid Ahmed, Rawalpindi Office Worker

Conclusion: A Double-Edged Sword

While the recent heavy rain in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has brought much-needed relief from the heat and improved dam water levels, it also poses new risks. The balance between benefit and hazard underscores the importance of preparedness, infrastructure upgrades, and public awareness in handling monsoon-related events.