ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave warning, predicting that daytime temperatures will remain 5 to 7°C above normal across the northern half of the country, including Islamabad, central and upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
In the southern regions—Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan—temperatures are expected to stay 4 to 6°C above average. The ongoing heatwave is attributed to a persistent high-pressure system over central and southern Pakistan, which is likely to continue over the next 72 hours.
Dadu recorded the highest temperature in the past 24 hours at 48°C, followed by Rahim Yar Khan and Jacobabad at 47°C. Other areas such as Mohenjo-daro, DG Khan, Bahawalnagar, Sibi, Nokundi, and Bhakkar experienced highs of 46°C. Most of the country has remained hot and dry, with particularly severe heat in the plains.
However, the PMD has forecast isolated rain, windstorms, or thunderstorms in the evening or night across parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, upper KP, Kashmir, and northeastern Punjab, including the Potohar plateau.
Health authorities have advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid exposure to direct sunlight, and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours. The extreme temperatures pose significant health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and outdoor laborers. Emergency services remain on alert across the affected areas.
