Severe Heatwave Grips Pakistan

(Web Desk): A strong heatwave is sweeping across large parts of Pakistan, with temperatures reaching dangerously high levels. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning, saying that the heat will continue in the coming days.

According to the PMD, temperatures in the upper half of the country — including Islamabad, central and upper Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan — are expected to stay 5 to 7°C above normal. In the southern regions — such as Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan — temperatures may be 4 to 6°C above usual levels.

This extreme heat is being caused by a high-pressure system over central and southern Pakistan, which is likely to stay in place for the next 72 hours.

The hottest place in the country over the past 24 hours was Dadu, where the temperature reached 48°C. Other areas like Rahim Yar Khan and Jacobabad recorded 47°C, while Mohenjo-daro, DG Khan, Bahawalnagar, Sibi, Nokundi, and Bhakkar saw highs of 46°C. The plains remain the most affected, with dry and extremely hot weather.

Cities across Sindh, including Nawabshah, Mithi, Mohenjo-daro, Sukkur, Hyderabad, and Karachi, are expected to remain very hot, with temperatures above 40°C. Dadu is likely to stay among the hottest cities, with temperatures ranging between 47 to 49°C in the coming days. Karachi will be hot too, with temperatures between 35 to 37°C along with high humidity.

Some areas in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and northeastern Punjab — including the Potohar region — may see isolated rain, windstorms, or thunderstorms during the evening or night. A few places could even experience hail on Monday, but this will not bring much relief from the heat.

Health experts are advising people to avoid direct sunlight, stay indoors during peak heat hours, and drink plenty of water. The intense heat is especially dangerous for children, the elderly, and outdoor workers. Emergency services remain on alert across the affected areas.