The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a forecast indicating that Karachi is likely to witness rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms on Eid ul Fitr, which falls on Saturday. This prediction comes as the city and its surrounding areas prepare for a change in weather patterns influenced by a persistent system of westerly winds. These winds are expected to create unstable atmospheric conditions, leading to a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures across Karachi.
Looking ahead to Friday, the weather is expected to remain mostly sunny, offering a brief respite before the clouds return. However, by Saturday, the Met Office anticipates increased cloud cover and the likelihood of moderate to heavy rain showers along with thunderstorms. This shift in weather is significant as it coincides with the Eid celebrations, potentially impacting outdoor activities and gatherings planned for the day.
Earlier on Thursday, Karachi experienced moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, which caused a sharp decline in temperatures. The maximum temperature during the day hovered between 27°C and 29°C, while the minimum temperature recorded in the early hours was around 18.5°C. Thunderclouds developed from morning through the afternoon, bringing strong winds and occasional lightning strikes to various parts of the city. The PMD also warned of gusty winds during the rainfall, which could pose risks to vulnerable structures and commuters.
Tragically, the recent heavy rain and strong winds have already resulted in loss of life in Karachi. City officials and emergency responders confirmed that at least 18 people died due to weather-related incidents on Thursday. Among these casualties, 13 individuals lost their lives when a wall collapsed on Wednesday, while five others, including two women, died in separate incidents across the city. These events underscore the vulnerability of urban infrastructure and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness in the face of increasingly erratic weather.
While light to moderate rain has been observed throughout Sindh province, where Karachi serves as the capital, certain areas experienced heavier downpours. It is important to note that rainfall during March is more typical in Punjab province, located in east-central Pakistan, whereas Sindh usually remains dry during this period. The unusual precipitation in Sindh highlights the growing unpredictability of weather patterns, a trend experts attribute to the impacts of climate change.
South Asia’s seasonal monsoon, which plays a crucial role in supporting agriculture and water resources, has become increasingly erratic in recent years. Last year’s monsoon season was particularly devastating in Pakistan, claiming over 1,000 lives due to widespread flooding and related disasters. As Karachi prepares for the upcoming rainfall on Eid, authorities and residents alike are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to minimize risks associated with sudden weather changes.
