KARACHI: Dark clouds covered Karachi on Monday morning as drizzle fell in scattered areas around 9 a.m., signaling the arrival of a new weather system. The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecast thundershowers in the northern parts of the city, with partly cloudy skies expected over the next 24 hours.
Meanwhile, a westerly wind system entered Balochistan via Iran on April 5 and is now moving toward Sindh. As a result, rainfall is expected across Karachi and other parts of Sindh on Monday and Tuesday.
However, officials said the ัะตะบััะธะน spell is likely to be less intense than last weekโs record-breaking downpour. The earlier rain dumped 38.7 mm in a single day, breaking a 41-year April record and causing widespread flooding. Consequently, major commercial areas suffered losses estimated at Rs4โ5 billion, while several fatalities were reported.
Despite lighter forecasts, authorities urged residents to remain cautious. Temperatures in Karachi are expected to range between 23.3ยฐC and 29โ31ยฐC.
In contrast, weather conditions in Balochistan are likely to be more severe. Strong winds, thunderstorms, and possible hailstorms are forecast across northern, central, and southern districts. Additionally, the PMD has issued a flood alert for mountainous regions in northeastern Balochistan, warning of potential flash floods.
A PMD official said the system remains dynamic. While Karachi may receive moderate rain, he warned that upland areas in Balochistan face a higher risk of sudden flooding.
