On May 24, 2025, the capital city of Islamabad found itself grappling with an intense rainstorm that transformed its peaceful streets into raging waterways. Accompanied by heavy hail and thunderstorms, the rainfall stunned residents and brought daily life to a temporary halt.
Sudden Downpour Wreaks Havoc
The storm took many by surprise, especially after weeks of scorching temperatures. Within minutes, roads were flooded, visibility dropped, and trees were seen swaying violently under gusty winds. In areas like Blue Area, G-6, and F-10, traffic came to a standstill as cars struggled to pass through waterlogged streets. The Metro Bus Service was also affected, leaving hundreds stranded during rush hour.
Hailstorm Turns Streets White
A rare and violent hailstorm pelted rooftops, vehicles, and pedestrians, further escalating the weather chaos. Videos shared by users show hailstones covering roads, giving parts of the city a snow-covered look – a rare sight for Islamabad in May. Damages to cars and rooftops were reported, although thankfully, no casualties have been confirmed as of yet.

Power Outages and Emergency Response
The storm triggered multiple power outages across sectors G-10, I-8, and Rawal Town. Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) teams were dispatched for restoration, but many residents remained without electricity for hours. Emergency services responded to calls of fallen trees and minor injuries due to slipping and flying debris.
Climate Shift or Isolated Incident?
Experts point out that such intense weather patterns could be part of larger climate irregularities. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) noted that Islamabad received over 60mm of rain within two hours—well above the seasonal average. Citizens are being advised to stay updated on weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain forecasts.
Final Thoughts
The May 24 rainstorm was a harsh reminder of nature’s unpredictability. While Islamabad is known for its scenic beauty and moderate climate, the sudden weather assault revealed the city’s vulnerability to climate anomalies. Whether this is an isolated incident or a sign of changing weather patterns remains to be seen.
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