Scorching Heatwave Grips Pakistan, Temperatures Soar Across Major Cities

Islamabad: The intense heatwave sweeping across Pakistan continues unabated, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department and Disaster Management Authority to issue health advisories and urge the public to take precautionary measures.
In Punjab, temperatures are being recorded up to 7°C above the seasonal average. Major cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Sahiwal are experiencing extreme heat.
In Bhakkar, the temperature soared to 49.5°C, but due to high humidity, the “feels like” temperature reached a staggering 53°C. Sargodha recorded 46°C, with a perceived temperature of 62°C. Dera Ismail Khan faced 48°C, while Bahawalpur hit 45°C, feeling more like 56°C. In Sindh, Shaheed Benazirabad recorded a sweltering 57°C, sounding alarm bells for health officials.
Other temperature readings include:
Lahore: 44.5°C
Multan: 44°C
Faisalabad: 45°C
Larkana: 44°C (feels like 51°C)
Sibi: 46°C
Islamabad & Peshawar: 43.5°C
Muzaffarabad: 40.5°C
Karachi & Quetta: Relatively milder at 33.5°C
According to the Meteorological Department, no significant change in weather or rainfall is expected over the coming days. Heat intensity is forecasted to peak between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. in most areas. Dusty and gusty winds are also expected in Punjab’s plains, which could further intensify the heat.
Severe hot and dry weather conditions will persist in most districts of Sindh and Balochistan, particularly in lowland areas of Balochistan where temperatures may reach dangerously high levels.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will also remain under heat stress, although light rain is possible in upper regions like Chitral, Dir, and Swat. However, the overall weather pattern remains hot. Similarly, no major relief from heat is expected in Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Health experts and authorities have advised the public to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, stay indoors, drink plenty of fluids, wear light and loose-fitting clothing, and take precautions to prevent heatstroke. Special care is advised for women, children, and the elderly. People are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay in shaded or cool places. In case of symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or nausea, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Authorities have intensified public awareness campaigns and placed hospitals on high alert with emergency facilities ready to handle any heat-related incidents.