The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a forecast on Friday, predicting rain and thunderstorms with "few heavy falls" in Karachi and other parts of Sindh, prompting preparations for potential downpours in the port city.
In response, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah declared a rain emergency in the province and announced Friday as a half-day for all government and private offices, including educational institutions. Various entities, including local bodies, hospitals, the water board, Karachi Electric (KE), and cantonments, have been instructed to ready themselves for any eventualities.
According to the latest advisory by the PMD, "rain/thunderstorms with few heavy falls" are anticipated in northern Sindh from February 29 to March 2, with similar conditions expected in other parts of Sindh from March 1. The PMD warned that heavy falls could lead to urban flooding in low-lying areas. Fishermen in Balochistan were advised to avoid venturing into deep seas until March 1, while those in Sindh were urged to remain cautious during the forecast period.
The PMD further explained that a westerly wave prevailing over Balochistan and adjoining areas of Sindh would likely bring "rain/thunderstorm with few heavy falls" to several districts including Kambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Ghotki, Sukkur, and Dadu until tomorrow morning. Similar weather conditions were predicted for other parts of the province, although "mainly dry weather" is expected in most districts tomorrow, including Karachi.
In response to the rain emergency, the Inspector General of Sindh held a meeting directing senior officers to collaborate closely with the Sindh Government and district governments. The police force was instructed to assist the public during emergencies.
During Thursday's meeting, the CM instructed town chairmen to oversee stormwater and sewerage systems in their respective areas. Chief Secretary Dr. Fakhre Alam was directed to issue directives to the police to aid the district administration in case of heavy rain.
The Director-General of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) informed the CM about providing necessary machinery for rainwater disposal to commissioners, deputy commissioners, and local bodies, with additional machinery and materials to be provided as required. Murad also placed Rescue 1122 on high alert and directed KE to ensure uninterrupted power supply to water board pumping stations, discouraging the practice of power shutdowns during heavy rain.
