The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast rain and thunderstorms in Karachi and several parts of Sindh on the first day of Eid ul Fitr, raising concerns about weather disruptions during one of the country’s busiest festive periods. According to the Met Office, a westerly weather system is currently affecting large parts of Pakistan and is expected to bring unstable weather conditions to Sindh, including Karachi, during Eid celebrations. Officials said the system may cause “rain, wind and thunderstorms” in Karachi as well as other cities in Sindh, with the possibility of moderate to heavy rainfall in some areas. Westerly System Behind Weather Change The change in weather is being driven by a seasonal westerly wave that entered Pakistan earlier this week. Meteorologists say such systems often bring rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms, especially during seasonal transitions. The PMD has warned that “a westerly wave is affecting most parts of the country,” which could result in scattered rainfall across southern regions during Eid. Karachi is expected to experience partly cloudy conditions with chances of thunderstorms and occasional heavy showers. Wind patterns are also likely to shift, with humid conditions prevailing in the city. Impact on Eid Celebrations The forecast comes at a time when millions of people are preparing for Eid prayers, family gatherings, and travel. Rainfall on the first day of Eid could affect outdoor activities, especially in major urban centers like Karachi. Authorities have advised citizens to remain cautious and stay updated with weather alerts. In previous instances, heavy rain in Karachi has disrupted traffic, caused waterlogging, and affected daily life. Weather experts say that while rain during Eid may bring relief from heat, it can also create logistical challenges, particularly in areas with weak drainage infrastructure. Wider Impact Across Sindh and Pakistan The weather system is not limited to Karachi. Other cities in Sindh are also expected to receive rainfall, while different parts of the country may experience varying conditions. The PMD has indicated that the system will gradually weaken after passing through southern regions, but not before bringing widespread weather changes across multiple provinces. Elsewhere in Pakistan, northern areas could see cooler temperatures, while parts of Balochistan and Punjab may also experience rain and thunderstorms. A Familiar Pattern for Karachi Karachi has a history of being vulnerable to heavy rainfall events. The city’s infrastructure has often struggled to cope with sudden downpours, leading to flooding and disruptions. Experts note that while Eid rainfall is not uncommon, preparedness remains key to minimizing its impact on public life and celebrations.
PMD Forecast: Karachi to See Rain, Wind & Thunderstorms on Jan 22–23
Karachi residents should prepare for rain, wind and thunderstorms next week as a westerly weather system moves into Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned. A shallow westerly wave is expected to approach upper parts of the country from January 16, lasting until January 19 and strengthening from January 20, with rainfall predicted in Sindh including Karachi on January 22 and 23. The Met Office says the weather system will first affect northern regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with rain-wind and light to moderate snowfall from January 16 to January 19. Light rain and snow are also expected in Murree, Galyat and surrounding hill stations between January 18 and 20. From January 20 onward, the wet spell is expected to intensify and spread across much of the country — Islamabad, Potohar, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa districts are forecast to see widespread rainfall and thunderstorms. Heavy snowfall is likely in high-altitude areas including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Murree and the Neelum Valley. The system will reach Sindh on January 22 and 23, bringing intermittent rain, strong winds and thunder to Karachi, as well as other parts of the province. Cities like Hyderabad, Dadu, Jacobabad, Naushahro Feroze, Kashmore, Larkana and Mirpurkhas may also experience wet weather. Karachi’s winter climate typically stays dry and cool in January, with night temperatures often falling below 10 °C due to northeasterly winds and low humidity. However, western disturbances — weather systems driven by mid-latitude westerly winds — occasionally bring unexpected rain to the city during the winter. These systems draw moisture from the Mediterranean and surrounding seas, causing unexpected winter precipitation across Pakistan and northwest India. Such rainfall can offer relief from dry cold conditions but also disrupt daily life. Roads may become slippery with rising water levels during heavier bursts, and commuters should expect strong winds and cooler temperatures through mid-January. Experts remind residents that while Karachi’s rain does not usually amount to heavy flooding, localized showers and thunderstorm activity can occur during these winter spells. The PMD has advised people to stay updated with the latest weather advisories and drive with caution in rainy conditions, especially on highways and outer roads. Tourists planning visits to northern areas should remain alert to updated snowfall forecasts that may affect travel. This developing system highlights the varied impact of winter weather across Pakistan from rain in low-lying coastal cities like Karachi to snow in high mountain regions underscoring the importance of advance preparation and awareness during the winter season.
