ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Sunday warned of potential severe weather in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

While rain and hailstorms lashed the twin cities on Sunday afternoon, bringing a pleasant change to the weather, the Met Office predicted warm weather on Monday as well.

According to the alert, the twin cities are likely to experience rain, strong winds, and possible hailstorms. The NDMA has cautioned that heavy rainfall and gusty winds could lead to the uprooting of trees and temporary power outages. The stormy conditions and hail pose a threat to weak structures and standing crops. Rain may also reduce road visibility, increasing the risk of traffic accidents.

NDMA advised citizens to stay informed about weather developments and follow safety precautions. It recommended checking traffic conditions before travelling, avoiding unnecessary movement, and exercising caution in landslide-prone areas.

Residents were encouraged to follow the NDMA’s mobile app for timely updates and adhere to guidance issued by local authorities.

Meanwhile, dark clouds blanketed the twin cities, making the day look like a night on Sunday. Winds blew away temporary shelters. However, no loss of life was reported in the garrison city. The meteorological department recorded one millimetre of rain at Shamsabad, Zero Point and Chaklala. However, no rain was recorded at Golra, Bokra, the Airport and Saidpur.

According to a Met Office spokesman, the rain and hailstorm occurred in isolated areas of the twin cities on Sunday, but warm weather is expected on Monday.

However, he said that rain-wind/thunderstorms are expected in Kashmir, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan on Monday. “Isolated heavy falls/hailstorms are likely in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said.

He added that heavy downpours and hailstorms may also occur at a few places during the period, while hot and dry weather is likely in other parts of the country.

He said that strong winds and hailstorms may cause damage to infrastructure and standing crops (particularly the wheat crop) in the country. Farmers are advised to manage their activities keeping in view the weather forecast. He also advised tourists to remain more cautious during the forecast period.

Published in Dawn, April 21st, 2025