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Karachi Storm Kills 20, Injures Several as Heavy Rain and Winds Batter City
At least 20 people lost their lives in Karachi after a deadly thunderstorm caused wall and roof collapses across the city. More rain expected.
ND
by News Desk
2026-03-19
Karachi Storm Kills 20, Injures Several as Heavy Rain and Winds Batter City

A powerful thunderstorm accompanied by heavy rain and strong winds swept through the city on Wednesday night, killing at least 20 people and injuring eight others, according to police officials.

The casualties were largely caused by collapsing walls, falling debris, and roof cave-ins as extreme weather conditions disrupted life across the metropolis. The Pakistan Meteorological Department attributed the storm to a westerly wave affecting most parts of the country.

Additional Inspector General of Police Azad Khan stated that 13 deaths occurred in a wall collapse in Saeedabad, while two more fatalities were reported in Quaidabad under similar circumstances. In Keamari, two individuals were injured when a wall gave way.

Separate incidents of roof collapses resulted in one death and three injuries in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, while another collapse in Mominabad, Orangi Town, left one person dead and two injured. In Malir’s Sukhan area, one individual lost their life due to a roof collapse. Additionally, one person died and another was injured in Clifton after being struck by falling debris. A lightning strike in Shah Latif Town also claimed one life.

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab reported that 55mm of rainfall was recorded during the storm, adding that most parts of the city remained operational despite the damage. Authorities confirmed that major roads had largely been cleared, although some under-development areas continued to face minor issues.

The PMD has forecast further rainfall for Thursday, warning of continued cloudy weather with chances of thunderstorms and isolated heavy showers. Temperatures are expected to range between 24°C and 26°C during the day, with high humidity levels.

Friday is likely to bring temporary relief with mostly sunny weather, while Saturday — expected to coincide with Eid — may again see cloudy conditions and possible isolated rain, particularly on the outskirts of the city.

Meanwhile, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah was briefed on the situation and ongoing response efforts. Officials reported that multiple agencies, including the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, traffic police, and K-Electric, conducted overnight operations to restore traffic flow and address hazards such as fallen trees, damaged infrastructure, and tilted electric poles.

The chief minister emphasized that protecting lives and property remains the government’s top priority and directed all institutions to continue relief operations until conditions fully stabilize.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious as unpredictable weather patterns persist across the region.
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