Karachi has recorded its heaviest April rainfall in over four decades, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. The city received 38.6 millimeters of rain within just 24 hours, breaking the previous April record of 37.0 millimeters set back in 1985. This marks the highest rainfall the city has seen in the month of April in 41 years.
The record breaking spell brought unusually cold weather, thunderstorms, and lightning to a city that typically experiences warm and dry conditions in early April.
How the Record Breaking Rainfall Unfolded
Rain began early on Thursday morning, April 2, under the influence of a western weather system moving across the region. Showers intensified significantly by the afternoon, with heavy downpours affecting multiple parts of the city. The rain continued late into the night, with several areas receiving particularly strong spells well after dark.
The intensity and duration of the rainfall caught many residents off guard. Thunderstorms and lightning accompanied the heavy showers throughout the day, creating weather conditions that felt far more typical of December than April.
As a result of the prolonged rainfall, temperatures across Karachi dropped sharply. The minimum temperature fell to 16 degrees Celsius overnight. This reading sits 5.8 degrees below the normal April average of 21.8 degrees Celsius, making it one of the coldest April nights the city has experienced in recent memory.
Reading of 38.6 millimeters in a single 24-hour period
The record rainfall highlights how unusual and intense this western weather system has been for the city. Karachi rarely receives significant rainfall during April. Therefore, a reading of 38.6 millimeters in a single 24 hour period represents a truly exceptional meteorological event for the region.
PMD had issued warnings ahead of the spell, advising residents to exercise caution and stay updated on official advisories. Furthermore, authorities had flagged risks to electricity infrastructure, billboards, and solar panels from strong winds and thunderstorms accompanying the system.
The cooler temperatures brought some relief to residents who had already begun experiencing the early heat of summer. However, the heavy downpours also caused disruption in various parts of the city, with waterlogging and strong winds creating difficulties for commuters and daily life.
Also read Punjab Makes Public Transport Free for All Citizens Under Relief Package
Karachi’s weather has drawn significant attention this week, with residents and meteorologists alike noting how dramatically conditions shifted from the warm early days of April. Social media filled with videos and photographs of flooded streets, dramatic lightning strikes, and unusually cold outdoor scenes from across the city.
The PMD confirmed that the broader western weather system is expected to remain active for a few more days. Consequently, further rainfall and cool conditions may continue to affect Karachi before temperatures return to their normal April range.
