The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a nationwide heatwave warning effective from June 7 to June 12, forecasting a significant rise in temperatures due to a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere. This system is expected to push temperatures well above seasonal averages across most regions of the country.
In its advisory released on Saturday, the PMD indicated that certain districts in Sindh and Balochistan could experience extreme heat, with temperatures soaring between 48°C and 51°C. Overall, maximum temperatures are predicted to exceed normal levels by 5°C to 7°C during this period.
From June 8 to 10, cities including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Mirpur, Bhimber, Kotli, Bagh, and Muzaffarabad may see temperatures ranging from 41°C to 44°C. Punjab is also expected to face intense heat between June 8 and 11, with temperatures reaching 44°C to 48°C in Lahore, Okara, Kasur, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Joharabad, Khushab, Mianwali, Noor Pur Thal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Sahiwal, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Pakpattan, Rahim Yar Khan, Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Bhakkar, Layyah, and Kot Addu.
In Sindh and Balochistan, maximum temperatures are expected to remain 4°C to 6°C above average, with heat levels potentially climbing to between 48°C and 51°C in areas such as Sukkur, Shikarpur, Qambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Mohenjo Daro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushero Feroze, Sibbi, Turbat, and Panjgur from June 7 to 12.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will also experience elevated temperatures, likely 4°C to 6°C above normal, with forecasts indicating highs between 41°C and 46°C in Peshawar, Mardan, Bannu, Karak, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan from June 8 to 11. Regions including Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to see temperatures ranging from 37°C to 40°C during June 8 to 10.
Notably, Karachi is projected to endure very hot conditions throughout the forecast period, with temperatures between 40°C and 43°C from June 8 to 12. Nighttime temperatures are also anticipated to rise, potentially increasing discomfort and heat-related stress among residents.
Due to intense heating, there is a possibility of dust storms occurring at isolated locations in southern Punjab and Sindh. The PMD has cautioned that this heatwave might have serious consequences for public health and daily activities. It has urged the public, particularly children, women, and elderly individuals, to take extra precautions during this time.
Farmers have been advised to carefully manage agricultural activities and implement measures to safeguard livestock from heat stress. The PMD also recommended minimizing exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and emphasized the importance of staying well-hydrated.
Electricity demand is expected to rise significantly during the heatwave, prompting calls for judicious water use and urging relevant authorities to remain alert and prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise during this period.
