Lahore Temperature Soars as Heatwave Intensifies
The heatwave has also affected other parts of the country, including Sindh, where Jacobabad experienced a scorching 49°C temperature. Karachi recorded a maximum temperature of 34.4°C on Monday, and the Met department predicts that the heatwave will persist until June 12, with daytime temperatures expected to be 3-5°C above normal in the upper and central parts of the province.
Punjab is bracing for another day of extreme heat, with temperatures expected to remain above seasonal norms until at least June 12, posing a potentially life-threatening threat to residents, particularly in major cities such as Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has confirmed that temperatures are ranging between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius higher than average, with Lahore temperature expected to simmer at around 45°C. The authority has issued an advisory urging the public to take immediate precautions, including avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities, staying hydrated, and wearing light-colored, loose clothing.
The effects of the heatwave can be severe and swift, and the PDMA has set up dedicated heatstroke counters in all hospitals to provide timely medical assistance. The Met Office has forecasted a similar heatwave in Gilgit-Baltistan, with temperatures expected to increase by five to seven degrees. This heatwave is not an isolated incident, as Pakistan experienced its ninth warmest year on record in 2024, with the national average temperature reaching 23.52°C, 0.71°C higher than the long-term average.
As the heatwave persists, it is essential for residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe. The Met department has advised people to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and use water judiciously. With temperatures expected to remain high until June 12, it is crucial for the public to remain vigilant and take care of their health.