The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning that heatwave conditions are expected to develop across much of the country from June 7 to 12. This is due to a high-pressure system forming in the upper atmosphere, which will push temperatures significantly above normal levels.
Heatwave Duration and Cause
According to a weather advisory released by the Met Office, the high-pressure system is anticipated to develop on June 8 and persist until June 11, triggering intense heat in several regions. The PMD stated that heatwave conditions are likely to develop over the country from June 7 to 12 under the influence of this system.
Extreme Temperatures in Sindh and Balochistan
The department warned that some districts of Sindh and Balochistan could experience extreme temperatures ranging between 48°C and 51°C during the forecast period. This includes areas such as Sukkur, Shikarpur, Qambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Mohenjo-Daro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Sibbi, Turbat, and Panjgur, where temperatures may remain 4-6°C above normal from June 7 to 12.
Temperature Forecast for Other Regions
In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, maximum temperatures are expected to remain 4-6°C above normal and may rise to between 41-46°C in Peshawar, Mardan, Bannu, Karak, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan from June 8 to 11. Temperatures in Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to range between 37-40°C from June 8 to 10.
The PMD said that temperatures in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Mirpur, Bhimber, Kotli, Bagh, and Muzaffarabad could remain 5-7°C above normal, reaching between 41-44°C from June 8 to 10. Across Punjab, mercury levels are forecast to climb to between 44-48°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 from June 8 to 11.
Karachi is also expected to experience very hot weather, with maximum temperatures likely to range between 40-43°C from June 8 to 12. The department noted that night-time temperatures would also increase, potentially adding to discomfort and heat stress.
Potential Impacts and Precautions
The PMD warned that due to intense heating, dust storms may occur at isolated places in southern Punjab and Sindh during the forecast period. The department urged the public, particularly children, women, and senior citizens, to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight between 10am and 4pm. The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and remain hydrated.
Farmers were advised to plan crop-related activities in line with prevailing weather conditions and take measures to protect livestock from heat-related stress. The Met Office also cautioned that electricity demand and consumption were likely to increase during the period and appealed for the judicious use of water in all aspects of life.
The PMD urged relevant authorities to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent any untoward situation during the heatwave. It added that daily weather updates would remain available through its official website and mobile application.
