KARACHI: Karachi experienced a record-breaking rain spell, shattering a 41-year-old rainfall record in the port city. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported 38.7 millimetres of rain in just 24 hours, surpassing the previous April record of 37mm set on April 2, 1985.
The heavy downpour brought an unseasonal winter-like chill to the metropolis, with temperatures dropping significantly. Last night, the minimum temperature was recorded at 16°C, which is 5.8°C lower than the average for this time of year.
Normally, Karachi experiences an April average of 21.8°C.The Met Office stated that the westerly wave responsible for the rain is now moving toward the southeast, though its effects are expected to linger in other parts of the country until April 4.
For Karachi, only light rain or drizzle is expected today, with no further heavy rainfall anticipated.Tragically, the recent wet spell claimed seven lives over the past two days. In Gulistan-e-Jauhar Block 7, a person died after being electrocuted during the rain.
Additional fatalities were reported in Surjani Town, PIB Colony, and near MA Jinnah Road, where five people succumbed to electric shocks.Structural damage also contributed to the casualties. In Old Golimar, a wall collapsed on a rickshaw, killing the driver instantly.
Another wall collapse in Orangi Town injured three children, who were quickly transported to a nearby hospital by rescue teams for medical treatment.