Karachi Among Cities Facing Rain Alert

News Desk

Karachi: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned of heavy rainfall across several parts of the country until September 16, raising the risk of urban flooding, flash floods and landslides in vulnerable areas.

Rain-bearing clouds have developed over northeastern parts of Karachi, with the Met Office forecasting light showers in the city over the next few hours.

However, the broader weather system could bring heavier rainfall to several regions. Low-lying areas of southeastern Sindh, including Tharparkar, Nagarparkar, Islamkot, Mithi, Umerkot, Thatta and Badin, are at risk of urban flooding.

The PMD has also forecast rainfall in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Lahore.

Heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods in local streams and nullahs across Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Malakand, Mansehra and Abbottabad, as well as parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Murree, Galliyat, Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Murree, Galliyat and Kashmir could also experience landslides during the forecast period.

The weather department has further warned of strong winds, hailstorms and lightning, which could damage weak structures and create additional risks for residents.

The PMD said a low-pressure area is currently positioned over southeastern Rajasthan and adjoining northern Gujarat and is expected to move west-southwestward during the next 24 to 36 hours.

Meanwhile, a westerly wave is affecting the upper and central parts of the country, contributing to the ongoing unstable weather conditions.

Authorities in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain vigilant as heavy rainfall could disrupt traffic, damage infrastructure and create hazardous conditions in low-lying and mountainous regions.