Severe Heatwave Alert Issued Across Punjab During Eid Holidays, PDMA Warns
Lahore: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a heatwave alert across Punjab during the Eid-ul-Adha holidays, warning of unusually high temperatures and urging citizens to take precautionary measures.
According to a PDMA spokesperson, temperatures across most districts are expected to remain 4 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal levels during the period.
In major cities including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, and Sialkot, temperatures may reach up to 42°C, while in southern and central Punjab districts such as Multan, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sargodha, and Jhang, mercury levels could rise as high as 50°C.
The PDMA warned that intense heat conditions may persist even during nighttime hours. Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia urged citizens to avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight between 10 am and 5 pm and to increase water intake to stay hydrated.
He advised people to wear light-colored, loose cotton clothing and to use caps or umbrellas when going outdoors. Parents have been instructed to keep children and elderly family members indoors during peak heat hours.
The PDMA also advised drivers to check vehicle tire pressure and radiator water levels before traveling. Citizens have been urged to use water responsibly amid potential shortages.
The authority further appealed to the public to arrange water for birds and animals during the heatwave. Special instructions have also been issued for butchers, livestock traders, and sanitation workers to take extra precautions during Eid-ul-Adha.
Arrangements are being made to ensure clean drinking water and temporary shade facilities at livestock markets, along with medical and veterinary camps to deal with emergencies affecting both humans and animals.
DG PDMA said citizens should remain alert to symptoms of heatstroke and seek immediate medical assistance in case of emergencies. For help or information, the PDMA helpline 1129 remains available.
