KARACHI: Several areas of Karachi received heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds on Thursday, prompting city authorities to remain on high alert and activate emergency response measures.
Rain was reported in multiple localities including Orangi Town, North Nazimabad, Saddar, II Chundrigarh Road, Sharea Faisal, and the Old City area. Downpours were also witnessed in North Karachi and Power House Chowrangi, where gusty winds intensified the situation and disrupted traffic flow on key arteries such as Sharea Faisal and Kashmir Road.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, wind speeds near the airport reached up to 47 km/h, with thunderstorm activity recorded in surrounding including Malir.
Intermittent rain was also observed in Surjani Town, Gulshan-e-Maymar, Landhi, Quaidabad, PECHS, Defence, Clifton, Nazimabad, and Garden. The Met Office reported a minimum temperature of 23.5°C, with the maximum expected to reach 27°C, while humidity levels stood at 83%.
Authorities said control rooms have been activated to monitor the situation closely.
The city administration has directed all deputy commissioners to respond swiftly to emergencies, while citizens have been advised to use helpline 1299 for assistance.
Senior Sindh Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon said additional de-watering pumps have been installed in low-lying areas to ensure quick drainage of accumulated rainwater. He added that vulnerable نقاط prone to waterlogging had already been identified, with staff deployed for continuous monitoring.
Residents have been urged to avoid unnecessary travel, exercise caution, and report any emergencies immediately. The minister reiterated that safeguarding citizens remains the government’s top priority, with all available resources being mobilised.
Changing Rain Patterns
The Met Office recorded 20.5mm of rainfall on the M-9 Motorway, while Surjani Town received 12.6mm, Gulshan-e-Maymar 7.2mm, Jinnah Terminal 6.2mm, Kemari 6mm, and Defence 5mm.
Meteorological officials noted that Karachi’s highest April rainfall was recorded on April 2, 1985, when 37mm of rain fell in a single day. Experts say weather patterns have shifted in recent years, with April rainfall becoming increasingly irregular.
Safety Advisory Issued by K-Electric
Amid ongoing rainfall, K-Electric advised residents to take safety precautions, particularly while using electrical appliances. The utility warned against operating devices such as water pumps in standing water and urged citizens to maintain distance from exposed wires, damaged cables, and power installations.
The company said its teams are on alert and monitoring the situation. In case of emergencies, citizens can contact the 118 helpline or use the K-Electric mobile app and digital platforms.
Power supply may be temporarily suspended in certain areas as a precaution, officials added, but will be restored once conditions are declared safe.
Sindh Moves to Modernise Emergency Services
Separately, a meeting chaired by Murad Ali Shah approved a comprehensive plan worth Rs30.8 billion to modernise emergency services across Sindh.
The initiative aims to integrate departments under a unified autonomous authority, enhancing coordination and response efficiency. The project includes the expansion of Rescue 1122, procurement of modern firefighting equipment, and establishment of new fire stations.
Officials said the plan also covers acquisition of fire trucks, aerial ladders, drones, and all-terrain vehicles. Recent safety audits of over 3,300 buildings showed improved compliance, with a reduction in high-risk structures.
The chief minister emphasized that strengthening emergency response systems is essential to protecting lives and property, vowing strict accountability and improved preparedness across the province.
