Extreme Heat Searing Cities Across Pakistan

Pakistan endures extreme heat across cities as temperatures exceed 45°C, particularly affecting Punjab and Sindh. Emergency measures have been initiated as hospitals report heatstroke cases. The National Disaster Management Authority is on alert and forecasts indicate ongoing high temperatures for another few days. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and minimize outdoor activities during peak hours.

Extreme heat continues to scorch cities across Pakistan, with most regions experiencing soaring temperatures since last week. In Punjab, nearly all cities reported temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius, with Bhakkar and Sindh’s Jacobabad topping records at an intense 49°C. The Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasts that this severe weather is likely to persist today, predicting mainly hot and dry conditions across much of the nation.

According to an announcement on their website, the weather agency noted, “Mainly hot and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country, while very hot in plain areas.” Dust-raising winds are also expected in the afternoons, although some areas in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan may see isolated rain or thunderstorms later in the evening.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) recorded alarming heat levels, with Sargodha City reaching 47.8°C, Gujranwala and Hafizabad at 47.5°C, and Lahore at 46.2°C. The only area providing any reprieve from the heat appears to be Murree, where the temperature was a more pleasant 32°C. But life remains disrupted throughout the nation.

The situation remains dire in Sindh as well, where Jacobabad is at 49°C, while Mohenjo-Daro is hitting 48°C. Other regions such as Larkana and Sukkur recorded 47°C. Karachi’s 40°C paired with 70% humidity has made conditions unbearable for many residents, leading to numerous health concerns due to the oppressive heat.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, cities like Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan recorded temperatures around 45-46°C. Northern mountainous areas are managing to stay cooler, and Quetta managed a relatively mild temperature of 38°C. Nevertheless, major urban centers feel the impact of this sweltering climate, stalling life as people stay indoors to avoid the sun.

On the ground, markets appear deserted, and vendors struggle to draw in customers, with rickshaw driver Muhammad Asif from Lahore stating, “The heat is unbearable. Even standing in the shade feels like being in an oven.” Hospitals in Punjab are responding with dedicated counters for heatstroke patients, particularly among vulnerable populations like laborers, children, and the elderly. This situation has only been worsened by frequent power outages, leaving many people without access to fans or air-conditioning.

In light of these conditions, the National Disaster Management Authority has been on alert, urging all provincial departments to remain cautious. The Punjab government is responding with measures to support the populace, as Relief Commissioner Nabil Javed has instructed all local officials to stay vigilant and monitor water supplies carefully—especially in Cholistan, to avoid any shortages.

Health advisories have been issued to encourage citizens to stay hydrated, limiting outdoor activities between the peak hours of 11 AM and 4 PM. They also recommend that residents dress in lightweight, loose cotton clothing, aiming to protect vulnerable individuals who are more susceptible under these hot conditions.

Authorities advised against strenuous activity in direct sunlight and reminded individuals to call the PDMA’s emergency helpline at 1129 if symptoms of heatstroke are experienced. Unfortunately, the meteorologists predict that no immediate relief is on the horizon, as the heatwave is expected to last at least another 48-72 hours.

“This is a life-threatening situation,” cautioned PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia, emphasizing the urgent need for protection of at-risk groups from the ongoing heatwave.

The severe heatwave currently affecting Pakistan, particularly Punjab and Sindh, presents a critical public health threat. With temperatures soaring—often above 45°C—authorities are mobilizing resources to manage the situation, set up emergency health services, and keep the public informed. Despite measures taken, the forecast indicates that relief is not forthcoming, placing vulnerable populations at heightened risk. Continued vigilance and proactive measures will be essential in the coming days.

Original Source: asianews.network