A blistering heatwave continued to grip large parts of the country on Tuesday, with temperatures in some regions expected to reach a scorching 48°C in the coming days, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warned.

According to the Met Office, temperatures across southern Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan are likely to remain 4 to 6°C above normal. In central and upper parts of the country — including Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Punjab — the mercury could rise by 5 to 7°C above average daytime temperatures.

In Punjab, Lahore is expected to experience a high of 43°C, while Bahawalpur may touch 45°C. Dera Ghazi Khan is likely to be one of the hottest spots with temperatures forecast at 47°C. Multan is expected to reach 44°C, Sargodha 45°C and Rawalpindi 40°C.

In Sindh, Karachi will remain relatively cooler at 36°C, but inland cities like Hyderabad (42°C), Sukkur (45°C) and Nawabshah (46°C) will endure intense heat.

Balochistan’s Sibi is expected to be among the hottest places in the country with temperatures forecast to touch 48°C. Quetta and Gwadar are likely to record highs of 38°C and 36°C respectively.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will also not be spared from the heat, with Peshawar forecast at 44°C, Bannu 41°C and Dera Ismail Khan 45°C. In the north, Gilgit is expected to reach 36°C and Rawalakot 30°C. The federal capital Islamabad will witness temperatures as high as 42°C.

The PMD has predicted that the current heatwave will persist for the next four days, with particularly harsh conditions expected on Saturday and Sunday. “Hot and dry weather is likely to prevail in most parts of the country on May 22 and 23. The plains will especially experience temperatures significantly higher than normal,” the Met Office said.

It further added that isolated rain and thunderstorms may occur in Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir and adjacent hilly areas on Friday and over the weekend, which may provide some temporary relief in those regions.

Authorities have urged the public to take precautionary measures, especially during peak afternoon hours. Citizens are advised to stay indoors where possible, increase water intake, and avoid direct exposure to sunlight. Special care has been advised for children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Hospitals in heat-affected areas have been asked to remain on alert, with emergency arrangements directed by provincial governments to handle any potential cases of heatstroke or dehydration.