Heavy rain, gusty winds lash Karachi, disrupts traffic and Eid gatherings

KARACHI: Heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms swept across parts of Pakistan’s financial hub Karachi early on Saturday, bringing relief from rising temperatures but disrupting traffic and raising concerns over Eid-related activities.

The downpour began before dawn under the influence of a new western weather system, with varying intensity reported across the city.

Areas including Gurumandar, Shahrah-e-Faisal, Tariq Road and Lasbela experienced moderate to heavy rainfall, while several neighbourhoods saw intermittent drizzle.

Thunderstorms and heavy showers were also recorded in Gulshan-e-Hadeed, Scheme 33, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Liaquatabad, Federal B Area, Clifton’s Seaview and PIB Colony.

Authorities said wind speeds were higher than usual in some locations.

The rain led to water accumulation on roads, affecting traffic flow in low-lying areas. Commuters have already reported slow-moving traffic in parts of the city.

Residents began taking precautionary measures following the sudden change in weather.

According to official data, the highest rainfall was recorded at Jinnah Terminal airport at 13.2 millimetres. Other readings included 11.4 mm in Gulshan-e-Hadeed, 11 mm at PAF Base Masroor, 10.8 mm at the Old Airport, 9.7 mm in Nazimabad (Paposh), 8 mm at PAF Base Faisal, 4 mm in Korangi and 2.6 mm in Surjani Town.

The lowest rainfall, 2.2 mm, was recorded on the M-9 motorway.