PMD issues severe rainfall alert for Sindh, warns of urban flooding

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a storm warning for Sindh, cautioning residents to avoid unnecessary travel and adopt safety measures as heavy rainfall is expected over the next 12 to 24 hours.

According to the PMD, the monsoon system affecting Sindh has intensified into a deep depression, which could bring over 100mm of rainfall, raising the risk of urban flooding.

Officials warned that September’s depression entering from India is unusual and could cause flash flooding, particularly in the Malir River.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also predicted heavy downpours accompanied by strong winds in the southern districts of Sindh, including Karachi and its surrounding areas. Citizens have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.

Elsewhere, partly cloudy conditions are expected in Islamabad with a 35% chance of rain, while southern Punjab districts are likely to experience thunderstorms and heavy showers at isolated points.

Rain is also forecast for Lahore, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, and Faisalabad during the evening or night.

Authorities warned of flooding risks in DG Khan and the hill torrents of eastern Balochistan, with strong winds and heavy rain posing a threat to weak structures, electric poles, and billboards.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain is likely in Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Mansehra, and Waziristan, while Balochistan’s Zhob, Lasbela, Khuzdar, Gwadar, and Kalat could also receive heavy downpours. Rain is similarly forecast for Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan in the evening and night hours.

During the past 24 hours, Jhang recorded the highest rainfall at 85mm.