Heavy Rains Hit Karachi, Fears of Urban Flooding Grow

KARACHI, August 19, 2025 – Heavy showers lashed several areas of Karachi on Tuesday, raising fears of urban flooding as rainwater entered homes and blocked roads.

Major areas including Sharea Faisal, II Chundrigar Road, Shah Faisal Colony, Model Colony, and the airport surroundings were hit hard by rainfall. Malir Halt, Korangi, Rafah-e-Aam, and Surjani Town also received showers.

For many residents, the rain brought relief from heat but also serious trouble. Streets in Gulistan-e-Jauhar and Nazimabad were flooded within minutes. Some commuters said it became impossible to reach their offices.

PMD Weather Forecast

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast more rain in Karachi till August 23. Officials warned of moderate to heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding in low-lying areas.

PMD also confirmed strong monsoon activity across Sindh. Rain is also expected in Hyderabad, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, Sanghar, Badin, Thatta, and Tharparkar.

Rainfall Record in Karachi

According to PMD, the highest rainfall was recorded in Keamari (29mm), followed by Nazimabad (28mm). Other areas included:

• PAF Masroor Base – 20mm

• Gulshan-e-Hadeed – 15mm

• Orangi Town – 12.2mm

• Karachi Airport – 10.8mm

• Sharea Faisal – 8mm

• Saadi Town – 5.1mm

• University Road – 5mm

• Super Highway – 4.8mm

• Gulshan-e-Maymar – 2.4mm

In Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Quaidabad, rainwater entered houses. Weather expert Jawad Memon warned that rain clouds were still forming and more showers could continue for hours.

Power Outages and Road Damages

Several areas of Karachi faced electricity breakdowns. K-Electric confirmed that 1,770 feeders out of 2,100 were working. Power in low-lying areas was cut for safety.

A section of North Nazimabad Landi Kotal Chowrangi caved in due to heavy rain, causing traffic jams. The Assistant Commissioner said authorities were informed and traffic police were directed to provide alternate routes.

Government’s Response

On Monday, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah chaired an emergency meeting. He ordered local governments, administration, and traffic police to stay on high alert.

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab informed that 44 critical drains were being cleared to prevent choking. Around 150 drains are being de-silted across Karachi. The CM instructed officials to minimize disruption and ensure public safety.

Situation in Other Provinces

Karachi is not the only city affected. Heavy rains have caused destruction across Pakistan.

According to official reports, 660 people have died in rain-related incidents so far. Most deaths occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (392), followed by Punjab (164), Gilgit-Baltistan (32), Sindh (29), Balochistan (20), Azad Kashmir (15), and Islamabad (8).

Among victims, 394 were men, 95 women, and 171 children. Over 935 people have been injured, with Punjab recording the highest number.