Pakistan continues to face a relentless heatwave with scorching temperatures reaching alarming levels in several regions.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the hot and humid weather is expected to persist until April 30, causing considerable concern for residents and authorities alike.
Recent reports indicate that temperatures have surged to an extreme 51 degrees Celsius in cities such as Larkana, Dadu, and Turbat. Lahore is not far behind, with highs of 42 degrees Celsius, while Karachi's mercury has hit 37 degrees Celsius.
As the heatwave intensifies, the Met Office has issued warnings for widespread hot weather conditions, particularly in Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan.
The heatwave’s effects are being felt across various parts of the country, with temperatures in Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan expected to be 7 degrees Celsius above normal. Major cities in Punjab, including Lahore, Sargodha, and Multan, are under the heatwave’s direct impact, with residents advised to take precautions. Similarly, regions in Sindh such as Sukkur, Nawabshah, and Mithi, as well as Balochistan’s Sibi and Turbat, are forecast to experience soaring temperatures throughout the week.
Islamabad, the federal capital, along with its surrounding areas, will also experience a hot spell, with the forecast predicting a steady rise in temperatures. The Met Office expects temperatures in these areas to remain higher than usual, particularly in the southern districts of Punjab and Sindh, where readings could be 5 to 7 degrees above the seasonal norm.
While the heatwave takes its toll on daily life, it is also affecting tourism. With the official arrival of summer in Kohat, the popular recreational site of Zeera has seen an influx of visitors looking to escape the sweltering heat. Syed Aleem Haider, a reporter from Aaj News, noted the rising trend of tourists flocking to the cooler highlands of the region in search of respite.
In response to the ongoing heatwave, local authorities have urged citizens to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
