After days of heavy monsoon downpours that wreaked havoc across Karachi, residents woke up on Thursday to light rain and drizzle in several areas, marking the fourth consecutive day of rainfall in the city.
However, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the weather system responsible for the recent intense showers has now moved away from the metropolis, bringing some relief and clarity about what’s next.
No Heavy Rain Expected Anymore:
The PMD confirmed that the monsoon system has shifted westward towards the coastal regions of Balochistan, particularly affecting Lasbela, Awaran, and Makran. As a result, Karachi is no longer under the threat of heavy rain. However, light rain, drizzle, and overcast conditions are expected to persist for the next 12 to 24 hours.
“Although the skies remain cloudy and humidity levels are high, the chances of another spell of torrential rain in Karachi are now very low,” the Met Office said. Residents can expect occasional light showers and drizzle today and possibly tomorrow, but the worst appears to be over.
Today’s Rainfall and Affected Areas:
Light to moderate rain was recorded on Thursday morning in areas such as Clifton, Defence, Saddar, MA Jinnah Road, Korangi, University Road, II Chundrigar Road, and Gulistan-e-Jauhar. The rain was mostly in the form of misty drizzle or fine droplets, which appeared heavier than they actually were due to the high moisture in the air.
The dense, low-hanging clouds seen across the city are a result of these humid and marine conditions, which are common in the late monsoon months of July and August but have persisted into September this year.
Devastation from Earlier Rainfall:
The current light rain follows three days of relentless monsoon downpours from September 8 to 10, which brought much of the city to a standstill. The intense rainfall caused urban flooding, infrastructure damage, and multiple fatalities, particularly in low-lying neighborhoods.
The Lyari and Malir rivers overflowed during the peak of the rains, displacing hundreds and prompting large-scale rescue operations. More than 350 residents were evacuated from flood-hit areas by Rescue 1122, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), and Pakistan Army personnel.
At least a few fatalities were confirmed due to drowning, particularly in the Gadap River area, and searches for the missing are ongoing.
