Rainfall, thunderstorms expected: Emergency services on high alert in Sindh

KARACHI: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority, Sindh, has placed emergency services on high alert across the province ahead of forecast rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds over the next couple of days.

The alert follows an advisory issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department, which warned that a westerly weather system entering southwestern Balochistan is likely to trigger intermittent rain, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms in parts of Sindh between April 2 and April 4.

Adviser for Rehabilitation Gianchand Esrani directed authorities to ensure full preparedness, while PDMA Director General Salman Shah said response mechanisms had been activated province-wide.

Rainfall is expected in several districts, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Thatta, Badin, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad and Tharparkar.

As part of contingency measures, dewatering pumps are being deployed at key locations in Karachi to ensure swift drainage of rainwater, while rescue teams will be stationed along major roads to assist motorists in case of urban flooding or breakdowns.

Officials said 10 pumps and five rescue teams have been readied. Focal persons have been appointed in multiple districts, including Karachi’s East, Central, West, South, Korangi, Keamari and Malir districts, as well as Hyderabad and Sukkur, to ensure coordinated and timely response. Deputy commissioners have been directed to maintain field presence and ensure readiness of local machinery and staff.

Authorities cautioned that strong winds and lightning could damage standing crops and vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, billboards and electric poles, and advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during the forecast period. Farmers have been urged to take precautionary measures, while a drop in daytime temperatures is also expected.

PDMA said all relevant agencies were operating under an integrated response framework to minimise potential damage and ensure swift emergency action, adding that the province’s disaster preparedness capacity has improved in recent years.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026