KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a cautionary alert against extremely hot weather in most plains of the country over the next two to three days. Daytime temperatures are expected to soar three to five degrees Celsius above normal in southern and central Punjab, while upper Sindh and northeastern and southern Balochistan will see temperatures two to four degrees above normal.
According to PMD forecasts, the hottest spot will be Dadu district in Sindh, where the mercury could hit 46 degrees Celsius. Nearby Nawabshah and Sukkur are expected to reach 45 degrees Celsius. In Punjab, cities such as Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Sargodha, and Lahore will experience temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Karachi, meanwhile, will face hot and humid conditions with a predicted high of 37 degrees Celsius.
Health experts advise residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, and take precautions to prevent heatstroke. The extreme heat is part of a broader trend of rising temperatures in South Asia, which scientists link to climate change. In recent years, Pakistan has faced increasingly severe heatwaves, with 2015 seeing a devastating episode that claimed over 1,000 lives in Karachi alone.
Authorities have urged utility companies to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, as power outages during such weather can be life-threatening. Farmers are also advised to take care of livestock and crops, as extreme heat can cause significant agricultural losses.
The PMD expects a gradual decrease in temperatures after the next two to three days. However, the public should remain alert and follow official weather updates. For more information, visit the BBC’s climate coverage.
Source: ARY News