Light rain was observed in different parts of Karachi on Thursday morning, bringing some relief from the city’s warm weather after forecasts had indicated light to moderate showers under the prevailing westerly system.
Drizzle was recorded in central areas including Saddar, Clifton, MA Jinnah Road and the Old City Area. The rainfall later spread to northern neighbourhoods such as North Karachi, New Karachi and Surjani Town.
Before the showers, gale-force winds lashed the port city.
While the showers were light, they brought a noticeable change in the weather, with cooler winds accompanying the rain in some localities.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast cloudy weather in Karachi over the next 24 hours, with chances of rain and drizzle in parts of the city.
According to the Met Office, some areas in the port city may receive rain or drizzle accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms during the day today (Thursday). The department said the city’s maximum temperature is expected to remain around 32 degrees Celsius.
The minimum temperature was recorded at 24 degrees Celsius during the last 24 hours, while the humidity level stood at 79%. Meanwhile, winds are currently blowing from the north-west at a speed of 11 kilometres per hour.
The latest forecast comes as weather conditions in the port city remain unsettled under the prevailing system affecting parts of Sindh.
Earlier this week, the PMD predicted the wet spell, saying the port city, along with Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad, and Larkana, are expected to receive rain and thunderstorms on March 25, 26, 28, and 29.
In the wake of the rain forecast, Sindh Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Wednesday instructed its staff to remain on high alert with all necessary machinery ready.
As per the alert, strong winds and hail may damage weak structures and solar panels, while temperatures are expected to drop.
Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel. Tourists and travellers are urged to take precautions, and farmers are advised to protect crops in advance.
The rain alert was issued in compliance with the orders of Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah, who chaired a meeting in connection with the weather forecast.
During the meeting, he directed all commissioners, deputy commissioners, and assistant commissioners to remain in the field for the next seven days.
He instructed the district administrations and local bodies to be fully mobilised.
Authorities have been ordered to ensure machinery for water drainage is available and operational, maintain traffic flow, and remove hazardous billboards.
Public awareness campaigns and all precautionary measures are to be completed ahead of the predicted weather events
