A severe heatwave is gripping much of Pakistan, with temperatures reaching dangerously high levels across the country.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an alert, predicting that daytime temperatures will stay 5 to 7°C above average in northern areas, including central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Read more: PDMA Issues Guidelines as Heatwave Threatens Punjab
In southern regions—Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan—temperatures are forecast to remain 4 to 6°C above normal.
This intense heat is due to a persistent high-pressure system over central and southern Pakistan, expected to last for the next 72 hours.
Dadu recorded the highest temperature over the past 24 hours at 48°C, followed by 47°C in Rahim Yar Khan and Jacobabad, and 46°C in Mohenjo-daro, DG Khan, Bahawalnagar, Sibi, Nokundi, and Bhakkar. Most regions remain dry and extremely hot, with the heat hitting the plains especially hard.
Cities in Sindh, including Nawabshah, Mithi, Mohenjo-daro, Sukkur, Hyderabad, and Karachi, are expected to continue experiencing temperatures above 40°C.
Dadu is projected to stay among the hottest locations, with expected highs between 47 and 49°C. Karachi will remain hot but relatively milder, with maximum temperatures ranging from 35 to 37°C, combined with high humidity.
Some areas in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and northeastern Punjab—including the Potohar region—may see isolated rain, thunderstorms, or windstorms during the evening and night. Hailstorms are also possible on Monday, though these events are unlikely to ease the heatwave significantly.
Health authorities have urged people to avoid sun exposure, stay indoors during peak heat hours, and stay hydrated.
The extreme temperatures pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those working outdoors. Emergency services remain on high alert throughout the affected areas.
