On August 20, 2025, the Sindh government declared a public holiday in Karachi and closed all public and private schools due to heavy rainfall, which resulted in widespread waterlogging and power outages. Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab declared a rain emergency, cancelled staff leaves, and deployed municipal teams to manage drainage and ensure public safety.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported heavy rainfall across Karachi, with Gulshan-i-Hadeed receiving 170 mm of rain, followed by the Airport Old Area with 158.5 mm, Jinnah Terminal with 153 mm, and Nazimabad with 149.6 mm by 8 PM on August 19. Areas such as Clifton, Defence, Korangi, and Malir also experienced torrential downpours, with intermittent rain continuing late into the night. The PMD has issued warnings about ongoing showers, raising concerns about potential urban flooding in low-lying areas.
Sindh Chief Minister @MuradAliShahPPP has declared a public holiday in Karachi on August 20 following record monsoon rains that battered the city. He urged citizens to stay indoors as more rainfall is expected.
The decision came during an emergency meeting at the CM House,… pic.twitter.com/jrpQVZVYQG
— Sindh Information Department (@sindhinfodepart) August 19, 2025Mayor Wahab has instructed the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), the fire brigade, and Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) to set up a Rain Emergency Cell, ensuring continuous coordination around the clock. The East Zone police, led by Deputy Inspector General Dr. Farrukh Ali, are on high alert and are prioritising drainage management, traffic flow, and the safety of citizens. Residents are advised to avoid flooded roads and to contact helpline 15 or their local police for emergencies.
Sindh Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani has instructed town chairmen and municipal commissioners to prioritise clearing major highways, followed by smaller roads, to ensure the smooth delivery of equipment. Emergency generators are currently powering sewage pumping stations due to outages from K-Electric. A 24/7 rain emergency cell, located at the Governor’s House and reachable at helpline 1366, is available to provide immediate assistance.
Monsoon rains play a crucial role in replenishing water supplies, but they often lead to flooding in Karachi due to inadequate drainage systems and high urban density. Light showers on Monday intensified into a heavy downpour on Tuesday, prompting Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah to convene an emergency meeting to coordinate efforts among local agencies and traffic police. The government’s proactive measures aim to minimise disruptions and ensure the safety of residents.
The PMD and NDMA advise avoiding low-lying areas, securing electrical installations, and using the NDMA Disaster Alert App for updates. Limiting travel and staying clear of power poles can prevent accidents during this ongoing weather crisis.
