Schools, other educational institution to remain closed on Wednesday

KARACHI: The Sindh government has announced that all educational institutions including schools across Karachi Division will remain closed on Wednesday, September 10 amid expected heavy monsoon rains.

According to a notification issued by the Commissioner Karachi, all public and private schools, colleges and other educational institutions will remain closed.

The decision was taken in view of the weather advisory by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), which has forecast more widespread rain,s wind, and thundershowers in the city.

The notification has been circulated to the Chief Secretary Sindh, Governor House, Chief Minister House, and relevant education departments to ensure implementation.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a severe weather warning for Karachi, as the city is receiving heavy to very heavy rainfall and the situation could lead to urban flooding till September 10, 2025, as a monsoon system strengthens over Sindh.

On Tuesday, September 9, Karachi saw widespread rainfall, with light to moderate showers reported in areas such as Metroville, SITE, Baldia, Mauripur, Defence, Korangi Road, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Burns Road, and MA Jinnah Road. The PMD reported a maximum temperature of 34°C, with humidity levels at 91% and winds blowing at 11 km/h. Meteorologists predict that the current wet spell will persist through Wednesday, September 10, with some areas potentially receiving over 100 mm of rainfall, accompanied by thunder and lightning.

The intensified monsoon system, described as a deep depression originating from Madhya Pradesh, India, and moving into Rajasthan and southeastern Sindh, is driving this extreme weather. The PMD notes that this system has introduced strong monsoon currents, leading to heavy rainfall across Sindh, including districts like Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpur Khas, and Hyderabad. On Sunday, Nagarparkar recorded 80 mm of rainfall, while Mithi saw 51 mm, indicating the system’s intensity.

Authorities have warned of urban flooding risks in low-lying areas of Karachi due to the city’s challenged drainage systems. The Malir River, typically dry, experienced flash flooding on Monday, raising concerns about waterlogging and disruptions to traffic and public services. The PMD has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, steer clear of electric poles and exposed wires, and contact rescue services in emergencies.

In response to the deteriorating weather, Jinnah Sindh Medical University postponed all exams scheduled for September 9 and shifted classes online, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. Local administrations are on high alert, monitoring the situation and urging citizens to follow official updates closely.

The PMD forecasts that the heavy rainfall will subside after September 10, potentially bringing relief to the city. However, residents are advised to remain vigilant as the monsoon system could cause further disruptions.