Karachi Braces for Intense Heatwave Conditions

Karachi is expected to experience a sweltering heatwave today, with the perceived temperature potentially soaring between 43°C and 49°C. Weather experts have indicated that the actual temperature will likely fluctuate between 37°C and 39°C.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has cautioned that most regions of Sindh will endure severely hot and arid conditions throughout the day. A disruption in the sea breeze affecting Karachi and other coastal areas is anticipated to persist for several days.

This disruption is attributed to a combination of wind patterns over the Gujarat region of India and the presence of a western weather disturbance. These factors are expected to contribute to the escalating heat intensity in Karachi.

The Met Department has suggested that a pre-monsoon weather system might influence eastern Sindh starting Saturday evening.

Rainfall accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms is probable in isolated areas of Tharparkar and Umarkot. Furthermore, strong winds and rainfall are also anticipated in Ghotki, Sukkur, Jacobabad, Tharparkar, and adjacent regions on Sunday.

According to meteorological authorities, wind activity over Gujarat could further stimulate pre-monsoon developments within Sindh in the coming days.

Heatwave Persists Across Other Regions

The ongoing heatwave in Lahore continued, with temperatures reaching 44°C and a reported heat intensity of 47°C. Meteorological authorities have linked the extreme weather to an extended period of dryness spanning from May to June.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Met Department reported that the heatwave remained intense across most districts, including Peshawar, where the temperature reached 40°C and is expected to climb to 44°C. Humidity levels in the provincial capital were recorded at 52%. The department also noted that temperatures in the region have risen by 6°C to 7°C compared to typical seasonal averages.

Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu experienced peak temperatures of 47°C. Light rainfall has been forecast for Peshawar and various districts of KP starting Friday.

Across much of the Cholistan Desert, temperatures approached 48°C. The Meteorological Department anticipates the intense heat to persist in southern Punjab for the next two days.

Reports from the region indicate that water reserves in the desert have diminished, causing significant difficulties for livestock. Livestock deaths and forced migration have been reported from affected areas due to dried-up wells and extreme temperatures.