Severe thunderstorms, dust storms and torrential rainfall that swept across various districts of Sindh on Tuesday night, including Karachi, caused widespread disruption and damage.The power supply system was affected in several cities, while incidents of uprooted trees, flying solar panels, and damaged power  lines were reported.

Several areas of Karachi, including Scheme 33, Shadman Town, Malir, Orangi Town, Baldia Town, Gulshan-e-Maymar, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Shah Faisal Colony, Bahria Town, Buffer Zone, Nazimabad, and Federal B Area, were hit by strong winds and dust storms.

However, damage remained minimal as the intensity of the storm gradually weakened.In Nawabshah, Shahpur Chakar, and surrounding areas, strong winds accompanied by rain brought much-needed relief from the intense heat that had persisted for several days.

Residents welcomed the cooler weather and rainfall, although power outages were reported in some localities.In Hyderabad and nearby areas, powerful winds and dust storms created panic among residents. Light rainfall was recorded in different parts of the city following the storm, but the electricity supply system was severely affected.

Power outages began around 11 p.m. in most areas, while residents of Heerabad had been without electricity since 9 p.m., causing significant hardship.Similarly, Dadu and its surrounding areas experienced a severe dust storm followed by light rain, bringing pleasant weather and ending the ongoing heatwave. However, strong winds disrupted the power system, resulting in electricity outages in many areas.

The worst damage was reported in Moro, where powerful winds tore away solar panels and signboards installed on the rooftops of houses, shops, hotels, and government and semi-government buildings. Trees were uprooted at several locations, and power lines collapsed in multiple areas. Five people were injured in separate incidents and were immediately shifted to hospital for treatment.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)