The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory forecasting a spell of rain and thunderstorms for Karachi and various parts of Sindh province. The unsettled weather is expected to commence from Monday, January 22, bringing a change to the current conditions.
Weather System Details and Forecast
According to the Met Office, a fresh weather system is likely to enter the southwestern regions of the country. This system is predicted to influence the weather patterns in Sindh, specifically impacting Karachi and its surrounding areas. The forecast indicates that rain-thunderstorm activity is expected in Karachi, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, and Mirpurkhas divisions from January 22 onwards.
The meteorological experts have attributed this upcoming weather change to the movement of western winds and the potential development of a low-pressure area. This combination is creating favorable conditions for convective cloud formation, which leads to rain and thunderstorms. Residents should prepare for intermittent periods of precipitation, which may vary in intensity across different districts.
Potential Impacts and Advisory
The PMD has highlighted several potential impacts associated with this weather episode. Windstorms and isolated heavy falls may occur during the thunderstorm activity. Such conditions can lead to disruptions in daily life and pose risks to infrastructure.
The department has advised the relevant authorities and the general public to remain alert and take necessary precautions. Key recommendations include:
- Ensuring proper drainage to avoid urban flooding in low-lying areas of Karachi.
- Securing loose objects and temporary structures that could be damaged by strong winds.
- Exercising caution while traveling, especially on highways and during peak storm activity.
- Staying updated with the latest weather bulletins from the PMD.
Farmers in the agricultural belts of Sindh have also been advised to manage their activities according to the forecast, as the rain could affect standing crops and harvesting schedules.
Broader National Weather Outlook
While Sindh prepares for wet weather, the PMD's forecast also covers other parts of Pakistan. The meteorological conditions are expected to bring rain, wind, and thunderstorms to Balochistan on January 21 and 22. Furthermore, rain with snowfall over the hills is anticipated in Gilgit-Baltistan and Kashmir from January 21 to 23.
In contrast, most parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to experience mainly cold and dry weather during this period. This disparity highlights the diverse weather patterns affecting different regions of the country simultaneously, driven by the movement of continental and western weather systems.
The arrival of this weather system marks a significant shift, particularly for Karachi, which has recently experienced relatively dry and mild winter conditions. Citizens are urged to heed official advisories and plan their activities accordingly to ensure safety and minimize inconvenience.
