Severe Heatwave Grips Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan; Alert Issued Nationwide

KARACHI: A severe heatwave has engulfed Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue a countrywide alert. According to weather experts, temperatures in southern Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan are expected to soar significantly above normal, with the heatwave forecast to persist until April 30.
The PMD stated that a high-pressure system has entered the upper atmosphere and is likely to impact most regions over the coming days. Daytime temperatures in southern parts of the country may remain 5 to 7 degrees Celsius higher than usual. Meanwhile, temperatures in Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and upper and central Punjab could rise by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal.
In response, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a heatwave alert for major cities of Punjab from today until May 1. The current weather conditions are dry, with no chance of rain over the next 2 to 3 days, further intensifying the heat. As temperatures rise, the use of air coolers and air conditioners has also increased significantly in homes and offices.
In Lahore, the provincial capital, the minimum temperature was recorded at 23°C, while the maximum is expected to reach 41°C.
The Met Office predicts that after April 30, rain-bearing winds will begin to enter the upper regions of the country, potentially bringing rain and hailstorms to Kashmir, Islamabad, northeastern Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan. A noticeable drop in temperatures is expected across the country starting May 1, bringing some relief from the ongoing heatwave.