QUETTA: Several parts of Balochistan, including its capital, received the first autumn rain on Saturday, turning the weather cold and triggering flash floods that submerged many low-lying areas.

The meteorological department has forecast rains with thunderstorm at a few places in Quetta, Turbat, Barkhan, Makran, Musakhel, Dera Bugti, Kohlu, Naseerabad, Jhal Magsi, Kachhli and Sibbi districts.

Besides, people of low-lying areas have been asked to remain alert as heavy flood is expected within the next 24 hours after heavy showers in catchment areas of River Nari and Bolan.

Rain lashed the Quetta city and surrounding areas after early morning thunderstorm with lightening. As showers continued with brief intervals throughout the day, many streets and roads were inundated with rainwater.

Despite efforts to clear the choked drains, the sanitary staff of Quetta Metropolitan Corporation failed to drain out rainwater. Some mud houses were also damaged as the rainwater entered the low-lying areas of Quetta.

Reports say that Harnai, Kalat, Chagai, Dalbandin, Sibi and several other areas of Balochistan also received moderate to heavy rains.

In Harnai district, heavy rain triggered flash floods in the seasonal streams. Qilla Saifullah, Duki and the Macch area of Bolan district also received heavy rain with thunderstorm and lightening.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2019