Karachi braces for more rain as monsoon system intensifies over Sindh

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday forecast rain and thunderstorms across several parts of Sindh through July 27, warning of possible urban flooding in low-lying areas due to moderate to heavy rainfall.

According to the Met Office, a low-pressure system over southwest Rajasthan and adjoining areas continues to persist, while strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea are penetrating southern and central parts of Pakistan.

Karachi is expected to remain mostly cloudy and warm with humid conditions over the next couple of days. The city may receive light rain or drizzle, while thunderstorms and rain are likely in its outskirts.

The PMD forecast thunderstorms with moderate to isolated heavy rainfall in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Jamshoro and Shaheed Benazirabad districts through July 27, with intermittent breaks.

Light to moderate rain accompanied by dust storms and thunderstorms is also expected in Ghotki, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Sukkur, Qambar Shahdadkot, Larkana, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze and Thatta districts during the same period.

The Met Office warned that strong winds and lightning could damage vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, electricity poles and billboards.

It also cautioned that heavy rainfall may trigger urban flooding in Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari and Shaheed Benazirabad.

The PMD advised farmers to plan agricultural activities in line with the weather forecast and take necessary measures to protect livestock.

The prevailing hot and humid conditions are expected to ease during the forecast period. Authorities have been urged to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to prevent any untoward incidents.