Pakistan’s weather authority has issued a heatwave alert, predicting a surge in temperatures across the country. The high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere is set to trigger heatwave conditions, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, starting from May 21st. The heatwave is expected to intensify from May 23rd to 27th.
Daytime temperatures in Sindh and Punjab are forecasted to be 4 to 6°C above the usual from May 21st to 23rd, escalating to 6 to 8°C above normal from May 23rd to 27th. Similarly, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan will also experience a temperature rise of 4 to 6°C above normal from May 21st to 27th.
Heat Wave in Pakistan
A shallow westerly wave is set to impact the upper regions of the country on the evening of May 16th. This weather system will bring about the following changes:
- Balochistan: Dust storms and isolated rain are expected in various districts from the evening of May 16th to May 19th.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Dust storms and isolated rain forecasted in several areas from the evening of May 16th to May 19th.
- Gilgit-Baltistan/Kashmir: Rain-wind/thunderstorm predicted from the evening of May 16th to May 19th.
- Punjab/Islamabad: Dust storms and isolated rain expected from the evening of May 16th to May 18th.
- Sindh: Dust storms and isolated rain forecasted on May 17th and 18th.
Heatwave Precautions and Advisories
The public advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and to use water judiciously. Farmers encouraged to manage their crops accordingly. Extreme dry/heatwave conditions may trigger bushfires/forest fires in vulnerable areas of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Northeast Balochistan. All concerned authorities advised to remain alert and take necessary measures to avoid any untoward situation during the heatwave spell.
