Karachi braces for thunderstorms as PMD issues nationwide weather alert

Pakistan Weather

Karachi, April 2, 2026 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast thunderstorms and widespread rainfall in Karachi on Thursday, warning of possible heavy downpours, gusty winds, and hailstorms across parts of Sindh and other regions of the country.

According to the latest advisory, Karachi and nearby areas are expected to experience intermittent rain and thunderstorms throughout the day, with southern districts of Sindh at risk of heavy falls and isolated hailstorms. The weather system is part of a broader pattern affecting multiple provinces, bringing unstable conditions across Pakistan.

The PMD has predicted widespread rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms in Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Meanwhile, isolated rainfall and thunderstorm activity are also expected in Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, particularly during the evening and night hours.

Authorities have issued warnings that heavy to very heavy rains could trigger flash flooding in northeastern districts of Balochistan, including Zhob, Musakhel, and Dera Bugti. Additionally, hill torrents are expected in Dera Ghazi Khan, while local streams in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may overflow between the night of April 1 and April 3.

The Met Office cautioned that severe weather conditions, including windstorms, lightning, and hail, may damage vulnerable infrastructure such as electricity poles, billboards, and solar panels. Agricultural areas are also at risk, as standing crops in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could suffer damage due to strong winds and heavy rainfall.

In Islamabad, partly cloudy to cloudy weather is expected, with a 30 percent chance of rain and thunderstorms later in the evening or night.

Regionally, southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to witness widespread rain and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy falls and hailstorms. Northern areas may also receive rain, along with snowfall over higher mountainous regions. In Punjab, cities such as Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan are expected to experience widespread rain, while Lahore and Rawalpindi may see isolated thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds.

Balochistan is forecast to receive intermittent rain and thunderstorms across most districts, with heavy to very heavy falls likely in northeastern areas. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir are expected to remain cloudy, with isolated rain and snowfall over mountainous terrain during the evening and night hours.

Over the past 24 hours, mostly dry weather prevailed across the country, though isolated rain and thunderstorms were recorded in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northeast Punjab, and Kashmir. Lahore reported the highest rainfall, receiving 16mm.

Temperature readings on Wednesday peaked at 35°C in Mithi, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Tandojam, indicating warm conditions ahead of the incoming weather system.

The PMD has urged citizens, farmers, and local authorities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to minimize potential risks from severe weather conditions. Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated with official weather advisories.