A severe heatwave continued to grip vast regions of Pakistan on Tuesday, with temperatures expected to soar to a blistering 48°C in several areas, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The Met Office reported that southern Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan are likely to see temperatures ranging 4 to 6°C above seasonal averages. Meanwhile, central and northern areas — including Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and upper Punjab — could witness a 5 to 7°C rise above typical daytime norms.
In Punjab, Lahore is forecast to hit 43°C, Bahawalpur may reach 45°C, and Dera Ghazi Khan is expected to be among the hottest at 47°C. Multan could climb to 44°C, Sargodha to 45°C, and Rawalpindi to 40°C.
Sindh’s coastal city Karachi will remain relatively moderate at 36°C. However, cities like Hyderabad (42°C), Sukkur (45°C), and Nawabshah (46°C) will experience sweltering heat.
In Balochistan, Sibi is likely to record the highest temperature at 48°C, while Quetta and Gwadar are forecast to reach 38°C and 36°C respectively.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will also endure high temperatures, with Peshawar reaching 44°C, Bannu 41°C, and Dera Ismail Khan 45°C. In northern areas, Gilgit may hit 36°C and Rawalakot 30°C. Islamabad is expected to see highs around 42°C.
The PMD anticipates the current heatwave will continue for the next four days, with especially harsh conditions on Saturday and Sunday. “Hot and dry conditions will dominate most regions on May 22 and 23, with temperatures well above average, particularly in the plains,” the Met Office stated.
However, isolated rain and thunderstorms are likely in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and nearby hilly regions on Friday and over the weekend, which may offer brief respite in those areas.
Authorities have strongly advised citizens to take precautions during the heatwave, especially during midday. The public is urged to stay indoors when possible, stay hydrated, and avoid direct sun exposure. Extra care is recommended for children, the elderly, and individuals with health conditions.
Hospitals in high-risk areas have been placed on alert, with provincial governments directing emergency preparations to handle potential heatstroke and dehydration cases.
