Karachi: According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a strong and active weather system has entered Pakistan bringing the risk of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and hailstorms over the next three days across multiple regions of the country.
Meanwhile southern areas, including Karachi continue to face an intense heatwave with rising temperatures and severe humidity.
In Karachi the Meteorological Department has forecast extremely hot and humid conditions for today. The city is witnessing intense sunshine along with a suspension of sea breezes resulting in severe humidity and discomfort. The maximum temperature is expected to reach up to 40°C.
Officials stated that due to high moisture levels in the air during daytime hours the heat index may feel between 42°C and 45°C. The current temperature has been recorded at 30°C, while the “feels like” temperature is being experienced at around 35°C.
The ongoing heatwave is expected to persist until tomorrow, with temperatures likely reaching 41°C, keeping the city under continued extreme weather conditions. Experts say the disruption of sea breezes and increased humidity are significantly intensifying the heat, making conditions more difficult for residents.
Meanwhile, PMD has confirmed that a powerful weather system is currently affecting northern and central parts of the country. The system is expected to remain active until May 5 bringing widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and hailstorms in several regions.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has also issued an alert and advised citizens to take precautionary measures due to risks of flooding, strong winds, and related hazards. Authorities warned that the intensity of the system may further increase in the coming days.
Rainfall is expected in Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
In Punjab, areas including Murree, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sialkot, and Faisalabad are likely to experience rain and stormy conditions.
Cloudy skies and unstable weather conditions are also expected across various districts of KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. PMD has further warned of possible hailstorms in some parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during this weather system.
Strong winds and thunderstorms may accompany rainfall, increasing the risk of damage to infrastructure, power supply, and daily life activities.
Authorities have raised concerns over accelerated glacier melting in northern areas, which may increase the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Heavy rainfall may also trigger flooding in rivers and canals, particularly in low-lying and vulnerable areas.
In hilly regions there is an increased risk of landslides that could block roads and disrupt transportation networks. Citizens have been strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the alert period.
The NDMA has urged the public to take precautionary measures to protect livestock and secure valuable property. Authorities have emphasized strict adherence to instructions issued by local administrations to ensure public safety.
