Heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms lashed Islamabad and Rawalpindi, flooding low-lying areas and disrupting daily life in the twin cities on Monday.

Dark clouds turned daytime into near-night conditions, while a brief but intense spell of rain exposed drainage issues, particularly in Rawalpindi, where several areas were inundated.

Areas including Sadiqabad, Shakrial, Dhoke Kala Khan, Kuri Road, and Khanna Pul were submerged, with streets resembling streams as rainwater entered homes and alleys. Key commercial zones such as Raja Bazaar, Bhabra Bazaar, and Mohallah Chah Sultan also reported flooding.

Residents faced significant difficulties navigating waterlogged roads, while questions were raised over the response of local authorities.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast intermittent rain in the twin cities through Tuesday, warning of continued risk of urban flooding in low-lying areas.