Heavy rainfall coupled with strong winds disrupted life across Karachi on Thursday, causing widespread flooding, traffic jams, and damage to vehicles, while ongoing development projects worsened the situation.
The Red Line and Karimabad underpasses became major trouble spots, leaving thousands of commuters stranded for hours.
Streets and residential areas were inundated, and overflowing drains and sewers compounded the city’s woes.
Videos circulating on social media showed motorcycles and cars trapped in potholes, prompting warnings for motorists to avoid certain routes.
The Meteorological Department reported that the rainfall was brought by a powerful western weather system entering Pakistan from Balochistan, which caused light to heavy rain across the city and hail in areas including Mauripur and Clifton.
Maximum wind speeds reached 38 km/h. Rainfall measurements included Nazimabad: 6.69mm, Keamari: 5.6mm, Saadi Town: 4.8mm, Gulistan-e-Johar: 4.42mm, and DHA: 3.3mm. Rainbows appeared in several areas after the showers.
Authorities have advised residents to take precautions and avoid non-essential travel as the weather system is expected to affect Karachi and rural Sindh until April 4.
Meanwhile, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) stated that it successfully managed rainfall effects, ensuring timely drainage and minimizing disruption to daily life, despite the challenges posed by ongoing construction projects.