KARACHI: Karachi witnessed record-breaking rainfall as a powerful weather system dumped 38.7mm of rain within 24 hours, surpassing a 41-year-old April record.
The previous highest April rainfall — 37mm was recorded on April 2, 1985. The latest spell has not only broken records but also brought an unusual drop in temperatures across the city.
The Met Office reported that the minimum temperature fell to 16°C, nearly 6°C below the seasonal average of 21.8°C, giving the city a rare winter-like feel in April.
Weather Outlook
Forecasters said the ongoing westerly weather system is gradually shifting southeast, though its effects may persist in other parts of the country until April 4. For Karachi, partly cloudy conditions with chances of light rain or drizzle are expected, with no further heavy rainfall anticipated.
Casualties and Incidents
The intense rain spell turned deadly, with at least seven fatalities reported over the past two days. A man lost his life due to electrocution in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, while several other deaths from electric shocks were reported in areas including Surjani Town, PIB Colony, and near MA Jinnah Road.
In separate incidents, a wall collapse in Old Golimar killed a rickshaw driver, while another collapse in Orangi Town left three children injured. Rescue teams responded promptly and shifted the injured to hospital.
Urban Disruptions
Heavy rainfall, which began Thursday morning and continued intermittently into Friday, caused widespread disruption. Low-lying areas remained inundated for hours, with Safoora Chowrangi and Hassan Square among the worst-affected locations.
Major roads were submerged, triggering prolonged traffic congestion, while multiple power feeders tripped, leaving several neighbourhoods without electricity.
Rainfall data showed Nazimabad received the highest precipitation at 97.4mm, followed by Keamari with 76mm and Surjani Town with 67mm. Significant rainfall was also recorded in DHA, Orangi Town, and near Jinnah Terminal.
Province-Wide Impact
The weather system extended beyond Karachi, with heavy rainfall reported in other parts of Sindh, including Mohenjo-Daro (50mm), Jacobabad, Dadu, and Hyderabad.
Authorities said efforts are underway to drain accumulated water and restore traffic flow, while emergency teams remain on alert as the system moves across the region.
