Karachi endured an intense heatwave that pushed temperatures to 44.1°C, marking the highest recorded temperature in the city in eight years. This extreme heat has tragically resulted in the deaths of at least ten people.
Welfare organizations such as the Edhi Foundation and Chhipa Welfare Association recovered bodies from various locations across Karachi. Many victims remain unidentified, with several believed to be vulnerable individuals found outdoors. The deceased were transported to major hospitals, including Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre and Civil Hospital Karachi, although no formal autopsies have been conducted so far.
In a significant development, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah expressed deep concern over the fatalities. He directed authorities to identify the victims and locate their families promptly. Additionally, he advised residents to minimize outdoor activities and take necessary precautions during the extreme heat conditions.
The severity of the heatwave has been compounded by prolonged power outages and persistent water shortages, exacerbating the difficulties faced by the public. In some neighborhoods, electricity cuts have lasted over 16 hours, disrupting daily life and even affecting students during their examinations.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) noted that Monday’s temperature was well above the average for May, though somewhat alleviated by lower humidity levels. While officials anticipate a slight drop in temperatures in the coming days, they caution that another surge in heat could occur later this month.
