After days of sweltering heat and sticky humidity, Karachi residents woke up on Tuesday to a welcome change: rainfall across much of the city.
The showers, ranging from light drizzle to heavier bursts, swept through areas including Sharea Faisal, Shah Faisal Colony, Malir’s Model Colony, Surjani Town, Korangi, and the vicinity of Jinnah International Airport. Early morning drizzle gradually turned into stronger showers in some neighborhoods, giving citizens long-awaited relief.
More Rain on the Horizon
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the wet spell isn’t over. A new system is expected to impact Karachi between August 22 and 23, bringing scattered showers to different parts of the city.
But while the rainfall cooled the temperature, it didn’t do much for the mugginess. With sea breezes stalled, humidity levels remained stuck at 75 percent, keeping the air heavy and uncomfortable despite the showers.
Relief Mixed with Worries
For many, the rain was a welcome break from oppressive weather. But it also raised familiar concerns about how Karachi’s aging drainage system would cope. Low-lying neighborhoods remain particularly vulnerable to waterlogging, a problem that has plagued the city during every monsoon season.
Sindh Government Prepares for Heavier Downpours
Anticipating more intense rain in the coming days, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah called an emergency meeting on Tuesday to review the city’s preparedness. He instructed local bodies, the administration, and traffic police to stay on high alert and maintain close coordination to minimize disruption.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab informed the CM that de-silting work is ongoing at more than 150 small drains and 44 major choke points to improve water flow. The city hopes these measures will help prevent the flooding and traffic chaos that often follow heavy rains.
