The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high-level alert warning that a severe heatwave will impact large areas of southern and central Pakistan from May 19 to 26. This development has prompted authorities to initiate emergency response protocols aimed at safeguarding vulnerable populations and minimizing heat-related health risks.
Temperatures are forecasted to remain dangerously high for three to five consecutive days across multiple districts in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. In Punjab, the districts expected to be most affected include Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Sargodha, Lodhran, Khanewal, Vehari, and Lahore.
Meanwhile, Sindh is predicted to face intense heat in Hyderabad, Jacobabad, Khairpur, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, Naushahro Feroze, Kashmore, Tharparkar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Matiari, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Badin, Qambar Shahdadkot, Karachi, and surrounding areas. Notably, exposed regions of Balochistan such as Turbat, Sibi, Uthal, Jhal Magsi, Dera Murad Jamali, Nasirabad, Jaffarabad, Usta Muhammad, Kachhi, Lasbela, and Panjgur are also vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
In a significant development, NDMA highlighted that prolonged exposure to intense heat could result in heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke, especially among children, elderly individuals, and outdoor laborers. The alert further noted that rising humidity levels in lower Sindh combined with dry conditions in Punjab and Balochistan may exacerbate thermal stress.
The authority also warned that the heatwave could lead to increased electricity consumption, place additional pressure on healthcare facilities, and negatively impact agriculture, livestock, and workforce productivity. District administrations have been instructed to implement heatwave contingency plans, establish cooling centers, and ensure continuous water supply in the most affected areas.
Citizens have been advised to limit unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours and maintain adequate hydration to mitigate health risks associated with the extreme heat.
