Met Office warns of fog, cold weather and landslide risks
Twin Cities Receive Rain for Second Consecutive Day
RAWALPINDI: Rainfall ranging from light to heavy continued in Rawalpindi and Islamabad for the second consecutive day, adding to the winter chill and causing inconvenience for residents and commuters.
The day began with cloudy skies and light morning rain, followed by brief sunshine before noon. However, the weather turned wet again in the evening as a stronger spell of rain lashed the twin cities.
Slushy Roads Create Problems for Motorists
The rain made driving conditions difficult, particularly in Rawalpindi, where slush formed on several roads due to ongoing development work.
Although no water accumulation was reported in central areas, slushy conditions were observed on roads dug up for infrastructure projects, including:
- Raja Bazaar
- 6th Road
- Rashid Minhas Road
- Ch Bostan Khan Road
- Jhanda Chichi Road
- Sir Syed Road
Water Accumulation on Service Roads
Water accumulation was reported on service roads along Jhelum Road, stretching from DHA Phase-H to Soan Bridge, making pedestrian movement difficult.
Visitors to Raja Bazaar also faced hardships due to construction for underground electricity cabling and relocation of utility services from Fawara Chowk to Hamilton Road (Dingi Khoi).
Traders Demand Early Completion of Works
Local traders urged the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC) to expedite development work, warning that prolonged digging was discouraging shoppers and negatively impacting business activity.
Rainfall Statistics Recorded
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, rainfall recorded included:
Islamabad:
- Murree: 21 mm
- Saidpur: 9 mm
- Golra, Bokra, Zero Point: 6 mm each
Rawalpindi:
- Chaklala: 8 mm
- Kutchery: 7 mm
- Shamsabad, New Kattarian, Pirwadhai: 6 mm each
- Gawalmandi: 5 mm
Weather Advisory Issued
A Met Office official said a westerly wave was affecting upper parts of the country and was likely to persist until Tuesday morning.
Cold and dry weather is expected in most regions, while very cold conditions are forecast for northern areas. Moderate to dense fog may continue over plain areas of Punjab and upper Sindh.
Landslide Risk in Northern Areas
The weather advisory warned of potential landslides in areas including:
Naran, Kaghan, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Shangla, Astore, Hunza, Skardu, Murree, Galiyat, Neelum Valley, Bagh, Poonch and Haveli.
Authorities cautioned that slippery roads and possible closures could disrupt traffic movement.
Murree Issues Advisory for Tourists
The Murree district administration issued a safety advisory for tourists, urging visitors to take precautionary measures and check weather updates before travelling.
Deputy Commissioner Agha Zaheer Shirazi inspected various areas of the hill station and directed all departments to remain alert, as snowfall is expected.
Visitors were advised to avoid unnecessary travel during fog and adhere to road safety measures.