The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a forecast warning of an intense heatwave affecting central and southern regions of the country from May 7 through May 11. This extreme weather event is attributed to a dominant high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere.
Notably, the heatwave is expected to extend to northern areas between May 8 and 10, with daytime temperatures rising well above average levels. In Sindh and Balochistan, cities such as Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Nausheroferoze, Jacobabad, Larkana, Sukkur, Sibbi, Turbat, and Panjgur are forecasted to experience temperatures ranging from 46°C to 50°C.
Meanwhile, southern and central Punjab along with southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—including Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar, Rajanpur, Kot Addu, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Sahiwal, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, and Dera Ismail Khan—are expected to see temperatures between 43°C and 47°C.
Upper regions such as Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Nowshera, Kohat, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Sargodha, Mianwali, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore, Okara, and Kasur may experience highs ranging from 39°C to 43°C. Karachi is also expected to endure very hot conditions, with maximum temperatures between 35°C and 38°C during this period.
In a significant development, a shallow westerly wave is predicted to influence the northern parts of the country starting the evening or night of May 10, potentially lasting until May 13. This weather pattern could bring some respite from the scorching heat.
Authorities have urged the public—especially vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly—to take necessary precautions. Recommendations include minimizing exposure to direct sunlight, maintaining adequate hydration, and conserving water. Farmers have been advised to adjust their agricultural schedules and ensure the well-being of livestock during this extreme heat spell.
All relevant departments have been instructed to stay alert and implement measures to prevent any adverse incidents during the heatwave, emphasizing the importance of preparedness in facing these challenging weather conditions.
