Karachi braces for 49°C as relentless heatwave grips Pakistan

Karachi: Pakistan continues to face a relentless heatwave, with Karachi experiencing extreme weather conditions on Friday.

The perceived temperature in the city may climb as high as 49°C, while actual maximum temperatures are expected to remain between 37°C and 39°C, according to weather analysts.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that most parts of Sindh are likely to remain extremely hot and dry throughout the day. A continued disruption in the sea breeze over Karachi and nearby coastal areas is anticipated to last several more days. Experts linked this weather pattern to a combination of wind circulation over India's Gujarat region and the presence of a western weather system, both of which are intensifying the heat across southern Pakistan.

The Met Office further stated that a pre-monsoon system is likely to begin affecting eastern parts of Sindh starting Saturday evening. Isolated thunderstorms with strong winds are expected in Tharparkar and Umarkot, while areas including Ghotki, Sukkur, and Jacobabad could also receive rain and gusty winds by Sunday.

The intense heatwave also persists across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Lahore saw temperatures rise to 44°C on Thursday, with the real feel peaking at 47°C. Meteorologists attribute this extreme weather to an extended dry spell from May through June.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, most districts, including Peshawar, recorded temperatures around 40°C, with forecasts predicting highs up to 44°C. The provincial capital also reported humidity levels at 52%, while regional temperatures were noted to be 6°C to 7°C above seasonal norms. Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu experienced extreme highs, with temperatures reaching up to 47°C.

Southern Punjab, particularly the Cholistan Desert, saw temperatures nearing 48°C. Local residents reported that water sources in the region have dried up, leading to significant hardships for livestock. There have been multiple reports of livestock deaths and forced migration due to dried-up wells and scorching conditions.

Light rain is forecast for Peshawar and other KP districts starting Friday, offering some potential relief from the oppressive heat.