Pakistan is expected to face an intense summer in 2026, with authorities warning of severe heatwave conditions in several parts of the country, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Officials from the Pakistan Meteorological Department said temperatures are likely to rise significantly in the coming months, with prolonged spells of extreme heat expected in both upper regions and urban centers of the province.
Data from the early months of the year shows an unusual trend, with temperatures rising sharply in a short period despite above-normal rainfall in April.
Deputy Director Muhammad Faheem Khan said early heatwave alerts have already been issued for parts of the country, including Lahore and Sindh, while similar conditions are emerging in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He said districts such as Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera and Charsadda may experience significant heatwave impacts during April and May. The official added that the department is coordinating with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority to ensure timely dissemination of warnings and preparedness measures.
He advised the public to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak heat hours and to take precautionary measures to reduce health risks. During the 2025 heatwave, Rescue 1122 reported around 935 people affected across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including cases of heatstroke and dehydration.
However, a spokesperson for the Provincial Disaster Management Authority said no formal heatwave alert had been received so far from the meteorological department.