The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) today issued a province-wide alert as a severe westerly weather system is forecast to bring rain, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms to Sindh, prompting advisories for citizens and farmers to take precautionary measures.
Adviser for Rehabilitation, Gianchand Esrani, has directed the PDMA to remain fully prepared to manage any adverse conditions, with intermittent rainfall anticipated from today until 4 April in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, and other districts.
In response, PDMA Director General Salman Shah confirmed that the authority’s emergency system has been activated. He detailed that 10 dewatering pumps will be positioned at key locations across Karachi for the prompt drainage of rainwater, while five rescue teams will be stationed along major thoroughfares to assist motorists.
To ensure a coordinated response, the authority has appointed focal persons in numerous districts, including Karachi East, Central, West, South, Korangi, Keamari, Malir, Hyderabad, and Sukkur. Mr. Shah stated that all deputy commissioners have been instructed to guarantee necessary preparedness, maintain a field presence, and coordinate with local administration for relief operations.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department predicts the westerly system, entering from Balochistan, will influence weather patterns until 4 April. Under its influence, districts such as Karachi, Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Tharparkar are likely to experience intermittent rain and gusty winds between 2 April and 4 April.
The PDMA warned that lightning and strong winds could damage standing crops and vulnerable infrastructure, including solar panels, billboards, and electric poles. Citizens have been advised to avoid non-essential travel during the forecast period, and a drop in daytime temperatures is also expected.
Mr. Shah noted that these measures are part of an integrated disaster response mechanism aimed at safeguarding life and property. He highlighted that the province”s disaster management capacity had improved significantly and urged the public to cooperate with authorities and follow official advisories.