Intermittent rain, accompanied by strong winds and a powerful hailstorm, hit various parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, bringing much-needed relief from the three-day heatwave but also causing significant property damage.
According to the Met Department, the rain spell is expected to continue till April 20, with forecasts of further rainfall, strong winds, and possible hail in the upper regions, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas.
City gripped by sudden weather shift
The unexpected storm brought black clouds, thunder, and severe hailstorms, especially in areas like the Blue Area of Islamabad, where several vehicles sustained damage. Windscreens and windows of parked cars were shattered, and large hailstones caused dents to vehicle bodies.
“A sudden and intense hailstorm swept through the area. Many cars parked in the open now have broken windows and visible damage,” said a local resident in Islamabad’s Blue Area.
The dark skies and thunderclaps made for a dramatic shift in the city’s atmosphere, effectively ending the unbearable heatwave that had gripped the capital for the past three days.
Impact in surrounding areas
The effects of the storm were not limited to Islamabad alone. Rawalpindi and its adjacent regions also reported strong winds and heavy rain, with similar weather expected to persist throughout the week.
In Pindi Gheb, the storm wreaked havoc by toppling signboards, trees, and utility poles, leading to widespread disruption in electricity supply.
Similarly, in Fateh Jang, rain and strong winds made the weather pleasant but also caused temporary power outages in several areas.
Further north, Mansehra, Kaghan Valley, Konsh, Siran Valley, Battagram, and Thakot witnessed heavy rain and hail, blanketing the mountainous regions under a gloomy sky and chilly winds.
Met Office warning
The Met Department has issued a continued weather advisory, predicting more rain, thunderstorms, and possible hail in the coming days. Citizens are advised to take necessary precautions, especially when commuting or parking vehicles in open areas.
