Karachi is expected to receive showers today, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
Last night, strong gush of wind blew dust in Saddar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Hassan Square, SITE Area, Gulistan-e-Johar, Malir, Landhi, Airport, Shahrah e Faisal, Abul Hassan Isphani Road, NIPA, Liaquatabad, Jail Road, Tariq Road, Guru Mandir and other areas of the city.
Dust storm brought great amount of destruction as trees were uprooted, roofs and ceilings fell down and traffic accidents took place because of which people got injured and also lost their lives. Reportedly 5 people died and 36 got injured due to the incidents.
Karachiites were happy for rain as it could provide them relief from hot weather but now they fear thunderstorm and destruction it can bring.
Due to forecast of thunderstorm and rain from today onwards, Local Government Minister Saeed Ghani has provided special instructions to Municipal Corporation, Town Officers, Directors of Sindh. All concerned departments such as water board, MCs and DMCs are on high alert. All departments will remain alert and will get no off during rain.
Minister for Local Govt said that the process of water evacuation will be done on early basis in all areas. All machinery for water evacuation and generator would remain on standby. Rescue authorities should remain on standby and complaints must be answered on urgent basis. Also, KE and all IPPs should answer queries of broken wires and electricity.
On the other hand, Karachi administration has decided to establish 118 first response heatwave management centers as part of preparations to deal with the expected hot weather in next two months.
The Met Office advised farmers to take precautionary measures during the forecast period. It also urged all concerned authorities to remain on high-alert.