KARACHI – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has published a weather alert forecasting monsoon rains in Karachi and parts of Sindh starting Saturday, August 17, and continuing by August 22.
Monsoon Currents Enter Sindh
According to the Met Office, weak monsoon currents have initiated entering eastern Sindh from India’s Gujarat region. These currents are predicted to intensify in the coming days, moving westward and affecting multiple districts over the province.
“Rains are likely to begin in Karachi from Saturday night, with intermittent showers predicted over the next five days,” said a PMD spokesperson.
Forecast Details for Karachi and Sindh
- Dates: August 17–22
- Weather: Partly cloudy with chances of moderate to heavy rainfall
- Affected Areas: Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Tharparkar, Mirpurkhas, and nearby regions
- Top Timing: Showers most likely during evening and night hours
Humidity will remain high during the daytime, contributing to uncomfortable situations ahead of the rainfall.
Preventative Alert
Local authorities are reminding residents to stay indoors during heavy rain, particularly in flood-prone or low-lying areas. Emergency response units have been alerted and are on standby across major cities, including Karachi.
Water levels at Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri barrages are now within the normal range but are being closely covered for any sudden changes due to upstream rain activity.
National Weather Outlook
While Sindh plans for rainfall, northern Pakistan continues to hold with destructive weather. Heavy downpours in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan have led to:
- Flash floods
- Landslides
- A death toll exceeding 300 people
The PMD has also warned of isolated heavy rainfall in Potohar region, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Kashmir. South Punjab and northeast Balochistan may also receive scattered rainfall.
Safety Guidelines for Residents
- Monitor PMD alerts and local news regularly
- Avoid traveling during terrible rainfall
- Stay away from underpasses and low-lying streets
- Unplug electrical devices during thunderstorms
- Keep necessary supplies ready in case of power outages
Stay Informed
Residents are suggested to:
- Follow the official PMD website and social media for verified updates
- Use weather tracking apps for hourly forecasts
Report emergencies to the Karachi Metropolitan helpline 1399
