Extreme Heatwave Grips Lahore and Surrounding Regions

Lahore experienced intensely high temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius, with a perceived heat intensity peaking at 60°C, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Thursday. The PMD has cautioned that the present heatwave is anticipated to continue for another day, potentially causing temperatures to climb by an additional 7°C.

The persistent heatwave across Lahore resulted in temperatures soaring to 44°C, with a recorded heat intensity of 47°C, as indicated by the Meteorological Department. Authorities noted that the apparent temperature felt like 50°C, with intensity levels hitting as high as 60°C.

Meteorological experts have linked the severe weather conditions to a prolonged period of dryness spanning from May to June.

The department has projected that the heatwave will likely endure for the subsequent 24 hours, with the possibility of temperatures rising further by 7°C. Relief is anticipated with a weather system expected to move into Lahore around June 14, which could lead to a decrease in temperature.

In the meantime, the Health Department has documented 67 cases of heatstroke across various districts in Punjab during the initial ten days of June. These incidents were attributed to escalating temperatures and prolonged exposure to intense heat.

Across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Met Department conveyed that the heatwave remained acute in most districts, including Peshawar, where temperatures touched 40°C and are projected to escalate to 44°C.

Humidity levels in the provincial capital were marked at 52%. The department also highlighted that temperatures in the region have surged by 6 to 7°C above the normal seasonal averages.

Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu witnessed peak temperatures of 47°C. Light rainfall has been predicted for Peshawar and several districts of KP starting Friday.

Authorities registered temperatures nearing 48°C across a significant portion of the Cholistan Desert. The Meteorological Department foresees the intense heat maintaining its grip on southern Punjab for the next two days.

Residents in the area have communicated that water resources in the desert have diminished, triggering severe challenges for livestock. Reports from impacted areas detailed livestock fatalities and displacement due to parched wells and extreme heat conditions.