Leh swells after heavy downpour

Three days of heavy rain triggers flood alert for the natural rainwater stream

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a flood alert for Rawalpindi's Nullah Leh after three days of continuous rainfall in the twin cities. The Rawalpindi administration earlier sounded flood-warning sirens as heavy rain intensified, with the water level at Kattarian crossing 22 feet and reaching 16 feet near Gawalmandi Bridge, up from earlier readings of 19 feet and 15 feet, respectively.

Rainfall later eased in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, allowing water levels in Leh to fall after the channel reached its day's peak. According to the flood control room, the water level at Kattarian fell to 17 feet from 21 feet, while the level at Gawalmandi stood at 17 feet. However, intermittent rain continued in parts of the twin cities, while the Met Office forecast more rain, wind and thundershowers in several upper and central parts of the country through August 21, with occasional gaps. Heavy rainfall is also expected during the period.

Rawalpindi received 67mm of rain at Pirwadhai, 59mm at New Kattarian, 55mm at Shamsabad and 47mm at Katcheri, according to the PMD. Islamabad also recorded heavy rainfall, with 90mm reported at Saidpur, 81mm at Golra, 78mm at Zero Point and 70mm at Bokra. The weather department said monsoon currents were penetrating the upper parts of the country, while a westerly wave was also affecting the region. Hot and humid weather will prevail elsewhere in the country.

Flooding has affected several parts of Rawalpindi amid continued rainfall, creating an emergency situation around Nullah Leh and surrounding areas. Floodwater has inundated homes in Dhoke Khaba, Pirwadhai and Amarpura, while water accumulation on Murree Road and adjoining areas has disrupted traffic.