Severe thunderstorms kill 19, injure over 50 in Karachi, Pakistan
Severe thunderstorms accompanied by heavy rain and gusty winds struck Karachi, Pakistan overnight on March 18–19, 2026, killing at least 19 people and injuring more than 50. The deadliest incident occurred in Mawachh Goth, Baldia, where a wall collapse killed 13 people, while six others died in separate rain-related incidents across the city. Authorities launched rescue and medical response operations.
Flooding in Karachi, Pakistan on March 19, 2026. Credit: Radio Pakistan
Severe thunderstorms associated with heavy rain and gusty winds affected Karachi, Sindh Province, during the night of March 18–19, causing multiple fatal incidents across the city.
At least 19 people were confirmed dead, and more than 50 were injured in rain-related incidents, according to official reports. Thirteen fatalities occurred when a wall collapsed in the Mawachh Goth Baldia area, while six others lost their lives in separate incidents reported in various parts of the city.
The majority of casualties were linked to structural collapses triggered by the storm, including walls and roofs in vulnerable areas. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah directed authorities to provide immediate medical assistance to the injured and ensure the evacuation of individuals trapped under debris.
The storm uprooted roadside trees and disrupted traffic in several areas of the city.
Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab urged residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel, noting that municipal teams were working to clear roads affected by fallen trees and debris. Police Surgeon Summaiya Tariq confirmed that multiple injured individuals were receiving treatment in hospitals following the incidents.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), strong winds associated with the storm reached up to 90 km/h (56 mph) and persisted for several hours.
The storm system developed as part of a westerly weather pattern affecting southern Pakistan. The Pakistan Meteorological Department warned that further thunderstorms were possible in the region, with a risk of isolated hailstorms.
The same weather system brought similar storm conditions beyond Karachi.
References:
1 19 die , 50 injured in rain related incidents in Karachi – Radio Pakistan – March 19, 2026
I’m a science journalist and researcher at The Watchers, contributing to the Epicenter edition, where I cover peer-reviewed scientific research and emerging discoveries across Earth and space sciences. With a background in astronomy and a passion for environmental science, I’ve worked in shark and coral conservation in Fiji, conducting reef and shark-behavior research, contributing to mangrove restoration, and earning PADI Open Water and Coral Reef Certifications. I bring a blend of scientific rigor and storytelling to illuminate the discoveries shaping our planet and beyond.
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