Karachi Hit By Heavy Rain As Westerly System Moves In Alerts Issued

KARACHI – Heavy rainfall lashed Karachi early Thursday as a fresh westerly weather system entered the region, bringing a drop in temperature and prompting authorities to issue alerts amid forecasts of more rain.

Dark clouds covered the city in the early hours, followed by steady showers across multiple areas, disrupting daily life and creating difficulties for commuters travelling to offices and educational institutions.

Karachi’s different areas including Defence, Saddar, Keamari, Clifton, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Malir, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Tariq Road, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Met Complex and Baldia Town recieved rain.

Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said the weather system is gradually entering the country through Balochistan and is expected to bring thunderstorms and intermittent rainfall to Karachi throughout the day. Strong winds are also likely, with officials warning that gusty conditions and possible dust storms could pose risks to weak structures.

Rainfall data showed 1mm recorded at PAF Faisal Base and 2mm at Jinnah Terminal.

The Met Office forecast similar weather conditions on Friday in Karachi and parts of interior Sindh, with the current system likely to persist until April 4.

Meanwhile, the Sindh government has urged citizens to remain cautious. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said advance arrangements had been made, including the cancellation of leave for essential staff and the installation of additional dewatering pumps to ensure timely drainage in low-lying areas.

He added that key locations prone to water accumulation had already been identified, with teams deployed and monitoring systems in place. Relevant provincial and municipal authorities have been directed to remain on high alert and stay in the field.

Memon emphasised that ensuring public safety is the government’s responsibility and advised citizens to follow precautionary measures and contact relevant institutions in case of emergency.

Latest weather radar indicated heavy rainfall over northern parts of the city, with reports of isolated hail in some areas.

Heavy rain warning issued for KP

In Peshawar, the Meteorological Department has issued a warning of severe weather across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa from Thursday through April 4.

The officials warned that heavy rain could trigger flash floods in local streams and landslides in mountainous areas. Strong winds, dust storms, lightning and hailstorms may also damage weak structures, including electricity poles, billboards, solar panels and standing crops.

Tourists and travellers have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the period.

Rain with thunderstorms is expected in multiple districts, with chances of heavy downpours and hail in some areas, while snowfall is also likely over higher mountainous regions.

The recent rainfall data showed 21mm in Dera Ismail Khan, 17mm in Parachinar and 9mm in Bannu. The highest temperature was recorded at 30°C in Dera Ismail Khan, while Kalam recorded the lowest at 4°C.