A heatwave is defined as a period of unusually hot weather lasting two or more days. With the Met Office issuing heatwave forecasts for many parts of Pakistan, it’s essential for people to take precautions to avoid sun exposure and stay hydrated.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, climate change, urbanization, and deforestation have significantly contributed to these hot weather conditions in recent years.
Heatwaves occur when a high-pressure area strengthens and lingers over a region in the upper atmosphere. This weather pattern impacts animals, birds, agriculture, and human health.
Symptoms of heatwaves include rapid sweating, a weak pulse, muscle cramps, headaches, nausea, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, loss of consciousness, weakness, and chest pain.
The PMD recommends the following steps:
- Stay hydrated.
- Stay covered.
- Wear light-colored clothes.
- Utilize shade with hats and umbrellas.
- Stay in shaded areas.
- Avoid direct sunlight.
Following things are to be avoided:
- Avoid hot beverages and spicy food.
- Refrain from outdoor activities.
- Minimize unnecessary outdoor exposure between 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
- Steer clear of extreme temperature changes.
- Keep pets indoors and avoid leaving them outside.
Pakistan prepares for scorching hot weather
PMD has issued a warning of severe heatwave conditions in Sindh, including Karachi, and the possibility of temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in parts of Punjab next week.
Currently experiencing intense heat, the country is forecasted to continue facing high temperatures, possibly exceeding 50 degrees Celsius in some areas over the next 10 days. Although conditions may improve slightly in the first week of June, Karachi is expected to have temperatures ranging from 33 to 40 degrees Celsius. The heatwave raises concerns about public health and strain on the power grid.
Authorities advise precautions and staying hydrated. Due to the predicted heatwave, Islamabad shortened school timings, followed by Punjab adopting adjusted timings from May 18 to May 31. Summer vacations in Punjab schools will start on June 1 and end on August 14.
