Karachi, August 24, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather alert predicting thunderstorms and heavy rainfall for Karachi and several other districts in Sindh from August 25, 2024. The new monsoon spell is expected to bring significant precipitation to the region, which could lead to flooding and disruption of daily life.
According to the PMD, thunderstorms are anticipated in Karachi, Hyderabad, Dadu, Thatta, Badin, Sajawal, Shaheed Benazirabad, Jamshoro, Tando Allahyar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tharparkar, Nagarparkar, Islamkot, Mithi, Mirpur Khas, Umarkot, Matiari, Sanghar, Sukkur, Ghotki, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Khairpur, Larkana, Jacobabad, and Nausheroferoze. These areas are likely to experience heavy rains accompanied by strong winds and lightning.
Impact of Torrential Rains
The PMD has warned that the torrential rains could cause pluvial flooding and inundation in low-lying areas of southeast and lower Sindh from August 25 onward. Pluvial flooding, also known as surface water flooding, occurs when heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, leading to water pooling in streets and low-lying areas.
The department also cautioned that the severe weather could impact daily routines and cause damage to weak structures such as the roofs and walls of katcha houses (mud houses), electric poles, billboards, vehicles, and solar panels. Additionally, road disruptions and other infrastructural challenges may arise due to the heavy downpour and windstorms expected during this period.
Synoptic Situation and Weather Forecast
Explaining the synoptic situation, the PMD stated that a low-pressure weather system is likely to approach the southern parts of Pakistan on the night of August 24. This system is expected to bring strong monsoon currents into the country, particularly affecting the southern regions, starting from August 25. The influx of these monsoon currents is anticipated to cause widespread rain and thunderstorms in the affected areas.
For Saturday, August 24, the PMD forecasts mainly hot and humid conditions across most parts of the country, with isolated rain-wind and thunderstorms likely in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Southeast Sindh, and Kashmir. Heavy rainfall is expected at isolated locations in Southeast Sindh during this period, potentially exacerbating flooding risks.
The weather forecast for Sunday, August 25, suggests that hot and humid weather will persist in most parts of the country. However, rain-wind and thunderstorms are expected at isolated locations in Sindh, Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Eastern Balochistan, Eastern Punjab, the Pothohar region, Islamabad, and Kashmir. The PMD also predicts scattered heavy rainfall, with isolated very heavy downpours in Southeast and lower Sindh, which could intensify the flooding situation.
Recent Weather Observations and Recorded Rainfall
During the past 24 hours, hot and humid weather prevailed over most parts of Pakistan. However, isolated rain-wind and thunderstorms occurred in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Southeast Sindh, Northeastern Punjab, the Pothohar region, Islamabad, and Kashmir.
The recorded rainfall over this period was as follows:
• Punjab: Joharabad (08 mm), Islamabad (Zeropoint 07 mm, Golra 01 mm), Sargodha (04 mm), Lahore (City 03 mm, Airport 02 mm), Sialkot (Airport 02 mm, City 01 mm), Gujrat (02 mm), Okara (02 mm), Bahawalpur (02 mm).
• Sindh: Hyderabad (05 mm).
• Kashmir: Rawalakot (04 mm).
Highest Recorded Temperatures
On the same day, Nokkundi recorded the highest maximum temperature at 42°C, followed by Sibbi at 41°C, indicating extremely hot conditions prevailing in these areas.
Precautionary Measures
Given the expected severe weather, residents of Karachi and other affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property. The PMD recommends securing loose objects, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying indoors during thunderstorms. Authorities have been urged to remain on high alert and prepare for potential emergencies due to the forecasted heavy rainfall and possible flooding.
As the situation develops, the PMD will continue to monitor the weather patterns and provide updates to ensure public safety and preparedness.
