Karachi is set to experience heavy monsoon rainfall next week as a strong weather system moves into Sindh. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert, forecasting moderate to heavy showers in several parts of the province from August 18 to 23. The announcement has prompted preparations in urban and rural areas to minimize disruption and damage.
Monsoon System Approaches Sindh
According to the PMD, a monsoon system will enter Sindh through India’s Gujarat region on the night of August 17. Meteorologists expect it to bring substantial moisture, triggering widespread rainfall.
Karachi will likely experience one or two intense rain spells during the forecast period. Weather experts have warned that while the showers will provide relief from the heat, they may also lead to waterlogging and traffic congestion in the metropolis.
Provincial Alerts in Place
The incoming rain system has also raised alerts in other provinces. The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a weather warning for multiple cities, including Lahore, during the ongoing Independence Day festivities.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia stated that the current rain system marks the seventh spell of monsoon rains this season. He noted that this spell is considerably stronger than earlier ones, carrying the potential for heavy downpours in both the upper catchment areas of rivers and the plains of Punjab.
Risk of River Swelling and Urban Flooding
Authorities have cautioned that the expected rainfall could lead to rising water levels in rivers. Heavy showers in upper catchment areas may increase inflows, putting pressure on riverbanks.
Urban centers, particularly those with poor drainage systems, face the threat of localized flooding. Karachi, which has struggled with urban flooding during past monsoon spells, remains under special watch. Civic agencies have been urged to clear drains, prepare pumping stations, and ensure rapid response teams are on standby.
Read: Shehbaz Urges Action as Rains Kill 300 Across Pakistan
Rainfall Timeline and Intensity
The PMD’s forecast outlines a clear timeline for the weather event. Rain is expected to start on August 18 and persist until August 23, with peak activity likely between August 19 and 21.
Meteorologists expect the intensity to vary across regions. Coastal areas, including Karachi, may experience moderate to heavy rain, while interior Sindh could see scattered but intense showers. Punjab’s plains are forecast to receive sustained rainfall, particularly in central and northern districts.
Religious Events to See Wet Weather
The PDMA has also warned that the rain may coincide with significant religious gatherings. Monsoon showers are likely during the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA).
Organizers of these events have been advised to make contingency plans. The PDMA has recommended additional shelter arrangements, proper drainage, and safe power connections to protect participants.
Public Safety Measures
Authorities in both Sindh and Punjab are urging residents to remain cautious. Commuters have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall. Those living in low-lying areas are encouraged to move to safer locations if flooding risks rise.
Motorists are urged to maintain low speeds, keep headlights on during rain, and avoid waterlogged streets. Fishermen along the Sindh coast have been warned of rough sea conditions and advised to remain onshore during the active spell.
Preparations in Karachi
Karachi’s administration has begun clearing stormwater drains and mobilizing municipal teams. The city’s traffic police have announced diversion plans to manage congestion in case of flooded roads. Emergency helplines have been reactivated to address public complaints and coordinate rescue efforts.
Electricity providers have also been instructed to ensure rapid fault repair and prevent prolonged outages, as heavy rain often disrupts the power supply in the city.
Looking Ahead
While the rainfall will bring temporary relief from the sweltering heat, the focus remains on minimizing its disruptive impact. Authorities emphasize that early warnings, combined with public cooperation, can significantly reduce the risks associated with heavy monsoon rainfall.
Both Sindh and Punjab are bracing for an active week of weather, preparing for a mix of blessing and challenge that the monsoon season traditionally brings.
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