The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a heatwave alert for Karachi on Monday, warning that daytime temperatures are expected to rise to between 40°C and 42°C from May 29 to 31. The PMD has predicted that intense heat could persist until June 5.
In response to the heatwave, the PMD has advised residents to drink plenty of water and avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm to minimize the risk of heatstrokes.
The Ministry of Climate Change recently reported that about 26 districts across the country are experiencing a severe heatwave. The current spell of high temperatures is likely to last until May 30. Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz mentioned that maximum temperatures could exceed 50°C till the end of the month.
Sarfaraz also noted that pre-monsoon rains could start in the first week of June, potentially bringing some relief from the heat.
The Met Office previously indicated that high pressure in the upper atmosphere is contributing to the development of heatwave conditions across most parts of the country, particularly in Sindh and Punjab.