Murree / Rawalpindi / Islamabad: Intense and persistent rainfall across Murree, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad has caused severe urban flooding, landslides, and falling trees, prompting local authorities to issue travel advisories and emergency warnings.

In Murree, torrential downpours that began last night have continued intermittently throughout the day. As a result, multiple trees have fallen, blocking roads and trapping vehicles, while the region has also reported landslides at several key locations.

Murree: Landslides, Trees Uprooted, and Power Disruption

The most affected areas in Murree include Boastal Road and Awain Point on the Expressway, where landslides have blocked roads and endangered commuters. According to local officials, at least three individuals suffered minor injuries due to falling rocks, while rescue teams evacuated 11 people and removed several stranded vehicles safely from the affected zones.

In the village of Numb Jhanda Gali, a landslide hit two residential houses. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, though the structures sustained some damage. Continued rainfall and strong winds have uprooted numerous trees, damaging cars and obstructing routes, especially in Bhurbhan and surrounding areas.

The stormy weather has also led to a major power outage, leaving Bhurbhan and adjacent localities without electricity for over 12 hours. Restoration efforts have been delayed due to persistent rainfall and blocked access roads.

Authorities Urge Caution

In light of the increasingly hazardous conditions, the Deputy Commissioner of Murree has advised citizens to avoid all non-essential travel to the hill station. He has also warned the public against bathing or swimming in rivers, streams, and dam reservoirs, which are currently running at high levels and pose a serious drowning risk.

Emergency services remain on high alert, and heavy machinery has been deployed to clear landslide debris and reopen key roads. However, officials have cautioned that further landslides are possible if the rains continue.

Rawalpindi and Islamabad: Flooding in Low-Lying Areas

In Rawalpindi and Islamabad, the rainstorm caused severe urban flooding, particularly in low-lying residential and semi-urban areas. In Rawalpindi, water entered homes in private housing societies, including Phase 8 and adjacent rural villages, disrupting daily life and damaging household belongings.

Residents in affected localities reported water seeping into basements, living spaces, and streets turning into streams. Municipal authorities are working to drain excess water using pumps, but the volume of rain has overwhelmed drainage systems in several neighborhoods.

In Islamabad, heavy rainfall led to water accumulation in underpasses and roadside drains, making it difficult for commuters to travel. Social media footage showed vehicles struggling through submerged roads, with traffic at a standstill in several sectors.

Forecast and Preparedness

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast more rain in the coming 24 to 48 hours, warning that flash floods, landslides, and wind damage remain serious threats across the Pothohar region, which includes Murree, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad.

Local administrations have activated disaster response teams, including police, emergency services, and civil defense personnel. Relief camps have been kept on standby, and citizens are encouraged to report emergencies via local helplines.

Public Advisory

Authorities have issued the following precautions for the public:

• Avoid all non-essential travel to Murree and hilly areas.
• Stay away from streams, nullahs, and overflowing drains.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or landslide-prone zones.
• Keep emergency kits and backup power sources ready in case of outages.

As rains continue to lash northern Punjab and surrounding areas, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety above all. Emergency alerts will be shared via media and SMS as conditions evolve.