Deadly storm kills 20, leaves trail of destruction across Karachi

KARACHI: A powerful thunderstorm tore through the city on Wednesday night, killing at least 20 people and injuring eight, as heavy rain and strong winds triggered wall and roof collapses across multiple areas.

According to police, the majority of deaths occurred in Saeedabad, where 13 people were killed in a wall collapse, while additional fatalities were reported in Quaidabad, Keamari, Gulistan-i-Jauhar, Orangi Town, Malir and Clifton due to similar incidents and falling debris. One person also died after being struck by lightning in Shah Latif Town.

Additional IG Azad Khan said most casualties were caused by structural failures during the intense storm, which lashed the city with heavy rain and strong winds.

Mayor Murtaza Wahab said around 55mm of rainfall was recorded, adding that while much of the city remained functional, low-lying and underdeveloped areas faced disruptions.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department attributed the weather to an active westerly wave affecting much of the country and warned of more rain and thunderstorms in Karachi and across Sindh in the coming days.

Authorities launched overnight relief operations, clearing fallen trees and restoring traffic on major roads. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said protecting lives and property remained the government’s top priority, as multiple agencies continued emergency response efforts across the city.