Karachi Simmers Under Intense Heatwave: Karachi — Pakistan’s largest city, Karachi, is currently reeling under the grip of a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40°C and no respite in sight. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a public advisory, warning residents about the high risk of heatstroke due to the stifling conditions prevailing across the port city.
According to the PMD, Karachi Simmers Under Intense Heatwave .Karachi has been enveloped by extremely hot and dry weather, exacerbated by a complete suspension of the cooling sea breeze that typically moderates the city’s coastal climate. The relative humidity climbed to a stifling 61% on Wednesday, intensifying the heat index and increasing the threat of heat-related illnesses.
“Hot and dry southeasterly winds are currently sweeping across Karachi at speeds between 25 to 35 kilometres per hour,” said a Met department spokesperson. “We do not anticipate any rainfall in the city today, and only a partial recovery of the sea breeze is expected during the evening hours.”
The Met Office has advised the public to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during the peak heat hours — particularly from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. –and to adopt preventive measures, including remaining indoors during peak heat hours, staying well-hydrated, and using appropriate sun protection such as hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen.
Sindh Battles Deadly Heatwave: Hundreds Affected, Livestock Also Suffers
The oppressive weather is not confined to Karachi alone. Multiple districts across Sindh province are facing a similar plight, with soaring temperatures having serious repercussions on public health and livestock.
Data released by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reveals that from April 14 to May 28, at least 674 people have suffered heatstroke across the province. The majority of the cases — 537 — were reported in Shaheed Benazirabad, followed by 11 in Tando Allahyar, 8 in Matiari, 3 in Hyderabad, and one each in Khairpur and Karachi. The affected individuals include 393 men, 272 women, and 6 children.
Adding to the toll, the extreme heat has also led to the death of 60 cattle during the same 45-day period, underlining the widespread impact of the heatwave on both human and animal life.
Extreme Weather Patterns Spread Across Pakistan
The PMD further reports that similar weather conditions are being experienced in other parts of the country, especially in southern regions of Sindh and Balochistan, where intense heat and dryness prevail. The heatwave is likely to continue in the days ahead.
In Punjab, temperatures remained high throughout the day, though the region may receive scattered showers by evening or night, providing some relief. Rainfall is anticipated in numerous districts including Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and Bahawalpur, among others.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, most areas witnessed hot and dry weather, but rain is forecast in northern districts such as Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, and parts of Chitral and Dir.
The federal capital, Islamabad, is also experiencing hot and dry daytime conditions. However, the PMD has forecast rain, wind, and even hail in isolated spots during the evening or night.
Meanwhile, regions in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms, offering some respite from the prevailing heat in these higher-altitude areas.
Precautionary Message from Authorities:
Officials urge citizens across heat-affected areas to remain cautious, limit outdoor activities during peak hours, ensure adequate hydration, and watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Emergency services remain on alert as the country continues to endure one of the most intense early-summer heatwaves in recent years.
