Pakistan is preparing to face its first major heatwave of May 2025, as forecast by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The extreme weather is expected to affect large parts of the country over the coming days, bringing significantly higher-than-normal temperatures and raising concerns about public health, agriculture, and water management.
According to the PMD, a strong high-pressure system will develop over the region starting May 15, triggering a heatwave that will persist for three to four days. The PMD warns that most regions of Pakistan will experience a sharp rise in daytime temperatures due to this system.
The southern provinces—Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan—are forecast to endure the brunt of the heat, with temperatures expected to rise 4 to 6°C above average from May 15 to 20. Meanwhile, northern Pakistan, including central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, will likely face even more severe conditions, with temperatures soaring 5 to 7°C above normal between May 15 and 19.
Relief may arrive towards the end of the period, as a westerly weather system is expected to enter the upper parts of the country by the evening of May 19. This system could bring rain-wind/thunderstorms, along with isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms in Kashmir, Islamabad, Potohar region, northeastern Punjab, upper KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan through May 19 and 20.
In light of the looming heatwave, the PMD has issued advisories urging the public—especially children, old-age individuals, and women—to avoid exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours and to stay hydrated.
Farmers have been advised to plan agricultural operations with caution and ensure proper care of their livestock to minimize the impact of the extreme heat.
Additionally, officials have raised concerns about accelerated snowmelt in the northern areas, which could impact water availability and increase pressure on existing infrastructure. Citizens across Pakistan are encouraged to use water responsibly and prepare for the continued effects of the heatwave.
All relevant authorities have been instructed to stay on high alert and implement timely measures to mitigate the risks associated with this heatwave.