Published on: August 20, 2025 3:45 PM
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a fresh alert warning of heavy rains across Sindh, especially Karachi, until August 23. The forecast includes Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Mirpurkhas, and Sukkur, where intense rainfall is expected within the next 12 to 24 hours. The NDMA predicts 50 to 100 millimetres of rain in a short period, increasing the risk of severe urban flooding.
Urban flooding may hit major cities including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and Mirpurkhas. Flash floods are also likely in Thatta, Badin, Dadu, and Jamshoro. Authorities warn that rising water levels in the Indus River and blocked drainage systems could flood low-lying areas. Roads and highways may be closed, and power outages are expected in affected zones.
The ongoing rain has already taken a heavy toll. In the last 24 hours, 47 people lost their lives due to rain-related incidents. Most casualties occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which reported 35 deaths. Other fatalities include one in Punjab, two each in Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, and seven in Azad Kashmir. At least 32 people were injured nationwide.
In Karachi, the Meteorological Department confirmed rain will continue intermittently until August 23. Light to moderate showers were reported on Wednesday. Mayor Murtaza Wahab revealed that Mangopir received a record 235mm of rain, while Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Karachi Airport recorded 202mm and 190mm, respectively. The city averaged 170–175mm of rainfall within 12 hours.
Mayor Wahab admitted that the city’s drainage capacity was overwhelmed, handling eight times more water than designed. While major drainage points like Nursery were cleared, traffic congestion slowed emergency efforts. He urged citizens to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and cooperate with authorities as rain continues.