Sindh authorities have been placed on high alert ahead of heavy rainfall and strong winds expected from March 26, with pre-emptive measures being taken to protect citizens, infrastructure, and crops.
Weather Forecast
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, widespread rain and thunderstorms are expected nationwide from March 24 to 30. In Sindh, the following are likely to be affected:
- Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms, and Strong Winds: Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Larkana, Karachi
- Chances of Isolated Hailstorms: Along with rain-wind activity over the same districts
- Temperature: Expected to drop during the rain spell
Government Preparedness Measures
Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Haider Shah chaired a high-level meeting with commissioners, deputy commissioners, and assistant commissioners to review contingency plans and ensure readiness for emergency situations.
Key directives included:
- Field Presence: Authorities must remain present in the field to address public issues immediately.
- Drainage Management: Ensure all machinery is operational to prevent urban flooding and water accumulation.
- Traffic Management: Emergency measures to maintain traffic flow and minimise disruption.
- Structural Safety: Action against hazardous billboards and unsafe structures due to strong winds.
- Public Awareness: Launch campaigns to inform citizens about precautionary measures.
- Coordination: Maintain communication with all relevant departments via Provincial Disaster Management Authority.
PDMA Advisory
PDMA Director General Salman Shah highlighted the districts most likely to be affected: Karachi, Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Dadu, Kashmore, Jacobabad, and Larkana.
- Staff have been instructed to remain on alert with necessary machinery ready to respond to emergencies.
- Strong winds and potential hailstorms could damage weak structures and solar panels.
- Standing crops may be affected by heavy rainfall.
- All deputy commissioners and relevant departments have been ordered to maintain high alert status.
The provincial government is taking proactive steps to manage potential emergencies from the incoming weather system. Citizens are urged to follow official guidelines, avoid unnecessary travel during storms, and report hazardous conditions promptly.
