Heavy rain floods Rawalpindi, Islamabad; Leh River residents ordered to evacuate

Heavy rainfall in Rawalpindi and Islamabad has caused flooding in several low-lying areas, while authorities have ordered residents living near Nullah Leh to evacuate as water levels continue to rise. Water levels at the Kattarian point of Nullah Leh reached 20 feet, while the level at Gawalmandi Bridge rose to 17 feet. Warning sirens were sounded in nearby areas as authorities feared further flooding. Residents living along the banks of Nullah Leh have been told to leave their homes immediately as a precaution. Several areas, including Pirodhai, Javed Colony, Muslim Colony, Arya Mohalla, Rahimabad and Sadiqabad, have been affected. Reports said floodwater has also entered some houses. The Pakistan Meteorological Department recorded 144 millimeters of rain in Golra and 124mm in Bokra. The average rainfall across Rawalpindi and Islamabad was around 95mm. Meanwhile, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a heavy-rain alert for several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from August 17 to 21. Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Buner and Kohistan are among the areas expected to receive rain. Rain is also forecast for Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera and Kohat. The PDMA warned that heavy rain could cause urban flooding in low-lying areas of Mardan and Swabi. District administrations have been directed to take precautionary measures and keep a close watch on rivers and streams. Tourists have also been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and remain alert to possible flooding and landslides.