PMD forecasts heavy rain, thunderstorms in Karachi starting next week

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast heavy rain and thunderstorms in Karachi starting next week, warning that the anticipated downpours could lead to urban flooding across the city.

According to the Met Office, a new monsoon system is likely to enter Karachi on August 18. Initially, it will bring moderate rainfall; however, heavy to torrential rains accompanied by thunderstorms are expected on August 20 and 21.

Anjum Nazir Zaigham, Deputy Director at the PMD, stated that satellite images show the system’s presence over India’s Rajasthan region. Under its influence, some rural areas of Sindh, including Tharparkar, Umerkot, and surrounding regions, have already started receiving rain.

Read: Heavy rainfall likely from August 14, predicts Met office

He added that the cyclonic circulations are expected to begin affecting Sindh by August 18, reaching Karachi by the evening of August 19. The city is then likely to experience heavy rainfall from August 20 to 21.

Zaigham warned that multiple spells of heavy rain in Karachi could lead to urban flooding.

“It is difficult to predict exactly how much rain this system will bring, as such systems can sometimes cause extremely heavy downpours,” he said.

Meanwhile, a private weather organisation, Weather Updates, reported that the circulation system over the Indian coast is pulling in sea breezes, causing winds to blow slowly in Karachi. This has resulted in hot and humid weather.

The organisation also stated that due to the ongoing circulation, low-level clouds may form over Karachi, potentially bringing light rain to the northwestern parts of the city.