The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), has issued a countrywide alert warning of an intense heatwave expected to persist until May 5.
According to the advisory released on Thursday, several regions—including Sindh, southern Punjab, and parts of Balochistan—are likely to experience extreme temperatures. Major urban centres such as Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, and Turbat are expected to remain under severe heat stress.
The NDMA noted that the current weather conditions align with its seasonal forecast issued earlier this year, adding that a comprehensive outlook for April to June had already been shared with relevant authorities.
In addition to the heatwave, a weather system is forecast to bring rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms to various parts of the country between April 24 and 29. Upper and central Punjab—including cities like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha—may experience dust storms, gusty winds, and rainfall on April 24, 25, and 29.
Northern districts of Balochistan such as Quetta, Ziarat, Kalat, and Khuzdar are also expected to receive rain with strong winds during April 24–25 and April 27–29. Meanwhile, coastal areas like Gwadar are likely to remain hot and dry, with temperatures gradually increasing.
Sindh is expected to stay largely hot and dry, though some areas—including Hyderabad, Badin, and Mithi—may receive light rain and gusty winds on April 24.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is forecast to witness intermittent rainfall and strong winds in districts such as Chitral, Swat, Peshawar, and Abbottabad during the same period. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are expected to experience scattered rain and thunderstorms from April 24 to 29.
The NDMA has warned that the prolonged heatwave could heighten the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses. Citizens have been advised to limit exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions.
Authorities at all levels have been directed to activate emergency response measures, establish cooling centres, and ensure hospitals remain prepared to handle potential health emergencies. Provincial and district administrations have also been urged to remain on high alert to effectively manage any situation arising from extreme weather conditions.