Karachi Weather: Heatwave Conditions Expected
The heatwave conditions are expected to have significant impacts on agriculture, domestic water supply, and public health, emphasizing the need for a coordinated response to address the crisis, with a focus on vulnerable populations and areas like Karachi, which is expected to experience a decline in temperatures from Friday.
Chief Meteorologist Afzal warns of significant temperature rise in the country, with daytime temperatures expected to soar up to 5°C above normal levels, threatening agriculture and domestic water supply, particularly in major metropolitan areas including Karachi.
The winter rainfall was recorded 42% below normal, with Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab experiencing 63%, 53%, and 41% less rain, respectively, leading to dams and water reservoirs reaching dead levels. The PMD has predicted below-normal rainfall in the northern regions, exacerbating the water crisis and potentially causing crop failures, disease spread, and wildlife impact.
Karachi, Hyderabad, and Lahore are currently experiencing mild temperatures, but the city can expect hot and dry weather during the Eidul Fitr holidays, with temperatures remaining 2-3°C above normal. However, a decline in temperatures is expected from Friday, with strong winds and cooler nights forecasted for the city, bringing relief from warm and humid conditions.
The authorities have been advised to implement precautionary measures to address the impacts of rising temperatures, heatwaves, and water shortages. Meanwhile, a wet spell is expected in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab, with potential flash floods and landslides in some regions, highlighting the need for preparedness and emergency response measures.
As the country braces for the heatwave conditions, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy, while the government and authorities work to mitigate the effects of the water crisis and rising temperatures, particularly in urban areas like Karachi.