NDMA Warns of Severe Heatwave Across Pakistan

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a heatwave advisory for most regions of Pakistan, warning that hot and dry weather is expected to persist from Tuesday (today) through Sunday, April 27.

According to the NDMA, Balochistan and Sindh are likely to experience significantly higher-than-normal temperatures throughout the week. Hot conditions are also forecast across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.

Despite the intense heat, scattered rainfall is expected in parts of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and some districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which may provide brief relief from the rising temperatures.

PMD Reports Soaring Temperatures

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that the highest temperature in the past 24 hours was 43°C in Jacobabad. Other cities also recorded high temperatures, including:

• Mithi, Bahawalnagar, and Nawabshah: 42°C
• Karachi, Kasur, and Lasbela: 41°C
• Lahore: 38°C
• Islamabad: 36°C
• Peshawar: 35°C
• Muzaffarabad: 33°C
• Quetta: 25°C
• Gilgit: 22°C

Karachi Braces for Extreme Heat

Karachi is expected to remain under the grip of the heatwave, with maximum temperatures projected to range between 39°C and 41°C over the next 24 hours. The minimum temperature recorded in the city was 24°C, with humidity at 60% and light southerly winds blowing.

The PMD anticipates a slight drop in Karachi’s temperatures starting Thursday, as sea breezes are expected to return, offering some relief.

Public Advisory

The NDMA has urged the public to take precautionary measures during the heatwave, including:

• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding direct sunlight, especially between 11 AM and 4 PM
• Minimizing outdoor activities during peak heat hours

Health experts have echoed these warnings, emphasizing the importance of preventive care to avoid heat-related illnesses during this prolonged hot spell.