Karachi residents woke up to a calmer day on Friday after three days of relentless downpours that flooded streets and claimed lives. The current monsoon system is set to leave the area by evening, though light showers could linger into the morning, according to weather officials.
The city, Pakistan’s bustling economic hub with over 20 million people, has struggled with the aftermath of the rains that started Tuesday. Floodwaters have turned major roads into rivers, disrupting daily life and highlighting gaps in urban planning.
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Current Weather and Immediate Effects
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reports that the rain system responsible for the chaos is weakening. Only scattered light rain is expected today in parts of the city.
Yet, many neighborhoods remain waterlogged. Traffic crawls on key routes due to potholes and standing water. Officials have closed several crossings, like the Korangi causeways, where the Malir River levels rose dangerously.
At least 17 people have died in rain-related incidents, mainly from drowning, vehicle crashes, structure failures, and electric shocks. The toll underscores the risks in a city prone to such events.
Power Failures Spark Outrage
Electricity disruptions have added to the hardship. K-Electric, the city’s power provider, says most feeders are back online, but about 100 remain off as crews work through the floods.
Some areas have gone without power for up to two days, leading to protests. In Gulistan-e-Jauhar, locals gathered to voice frustration over the blackouts, which have left homes without lights or water pumps.
One resident shared, “The kids and older folks are hit hardest by this.” Similar complaints came from Saddar and other districts, where supplies cut out since the rains began.
- Affected neighborhoods: Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Scheme 33, Orangi Town, Malir.
- Key issues: No electricity for fans or charging devices during humid weather.
- Response: Utility teams prioritize safe restorations once water recedes.
Broader Toll and School Closures
Mobile signals and flights faced interruptions earlier in the week. Private schools shut doors or moved online, but public ones stayed open without official orders.
Nationwide, nearly 750 lives have been lost this monsoon season. Pakistan ranks high in climate risk, with events like the 2022 floods that killed 1,700 and swamped vast areas.
What’s Next for Karachi
Relief might be short-lived. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) forecasts another round of heavy rains from August 24 to 28, which could cause more urban flooding in low-lying spots.
People are urged to steer clear of flooded paths and live wires. Hyderabad and other Sindh regions may see similar weather.
Authorities call for better preparedness as climate patterns bring more frequent extremes. For now, cleanup efforts continue in hopes of normalcy before the next system arrives.
