The Indian Meteorological Department issued a statement indicating that winds were reaching speeds of up to 150 kilometers (93 miles) per hour.

In Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, the storm unleashed severe flooding upon city streets and homes. Overwhelmed by the deluge, the city’s drainage system proved incapable of handling the downpour, resulting in widespread waterlogging and inundation. The aftermath of the flooding left a trail of destruction, with roads, bridges, and buildings suffering significant damage. Furthermore, the storm wreaked havoc on the electricity and internet infrastructure, leaving many areas without power for an extended period. This power outage created immense hardships for residents who rely on electricity for essential daily needs such as cooking, refrigeration, and air conditioning.

Tragically, the storm’s impact was not solely limited to physical damage. It also resulted in a considerable loss of life, with at least 20 confirmed deaths and numerous others sustaining injuries. In response to this catastrophe, the government swiftly initiated rescue and relief operations, including the evacuation of affected individuals and the provision of emergency supplies. The grim event serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to enhance infrastructure and disaster preparedness, particularly by improving the drainage system in cities like Karachi and bolstering investments in disaster risk reduction and response mechanisms.

The ferocity of this storm underscores the vital importance of building resilient communities and making strategic investments in climate adaptation and mitigation measures. As the frequency and severity of climate change-related events escalate, it becomes increasingly critical to allocate resources towards safeguarding communities and preventing the exacerbation of their impacts.