A widespread heatwave has engulfed Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue an official alert warning of unusually high temperatures through April 30.
According to meteorologists, intense atmospheric pressure has developed over the region, leading to significantly above-average temperatures. Daytime highs in southern Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan are expected to soar 5 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal, while parts of Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and upper and central Punjab may experience temperatures 4 to 6 degrees above the seasonal average.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has also issued heatwave alerts for major cities in Punjab, effective from today through May 1. In Lahore, temperatures are forecasted to peak at 41°C, with the minimum recorded at 23°C.
The PMD noted that dry conditions and the absence of rain are contributing to the intensifying heat. No rainfall is expected across most of the country for the next few days, resulting in increased use of air conditioners and coolers in homes and offices.
However, some relief may be on the horizon. From April 30 onward, rain-bearing winds are expected to enter Pakistan’s northern regions, potentially bringing showers and hailstorms to areas including Kashmir, Islamabad, northeast Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
A decrease in heatwave intensity is anticipated after May 1, offering some respite to the affected regions.
