Large parts of Pakistan continue to reel under an intense heatwave as temperatures soar well above seasonal averages, prompting emergency alerts from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and the Met Department.

According to a PDMA spokesperson, the current heatwave gripping Punjab is expected to persist until June 12, with temperatures likely to remain 4 to 7 degrees Celsius higher than normal.

The hottest city recorded in Punjab on Monday was Sargodha, where the mercury hit 47°C, while other cities, including Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad also witnessed sweltering conditions, with temperatures peaking at 45°C. Balochistan's Sibi also recorded a temperature of 45 degrees.

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The heatwave is expected to be particularly severe in Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Multan, PDMA officials warned.

Countrywide impact

The Met Department has reported that most regions across Pakistan, including Islamabad, upper and central Sindh, Balochistan, and the plains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, are experiencing extreme heat. In Islamabad, the temperature reached 43°C, which is four degrees higher than the norm for this time of year.

Other notable highs recorded on Monday include:

Faisalabad and DI Khan: 44.5°C
Larkana: 44°C
Peshawar, Multan, Bahawalpur: 43°C
Muzaffarabad: 40°C
Quetta and Gilgit: 35°C
Karachi: 34°C

Emergency measures activated

In response to the emergency, PDMA Punjab Director General Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that heatwave counters have been established in all hospitals, and clean drinking water is being ensured in Cholistan districts.

He added that, on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, all relevant institutions are on high alert to respond to any heat-related emergencies.

Public advised to take precautions

The Met Department has urged the public, especially children, the elderly, and women, to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun and remain hydrated to prevent heatstroke.

“Continuous intake of water and staying indoors during peak heat hours are critical,” said the department’s spokesperson.