ISLAMABAD, April 23, 2026 – Pakistan has issued a nationwide heatwave alert warning of extreme temperatures across multiple regions until May 5, alongside forecasts of rain, dust storms and thunderstorms in several parts of the country between April 24 and 29.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), through its National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), urged provincial governments and citizens to take immediate precautionary measures as the country enters a period of intensified weather activity.
Officials said the current weather pattern aligns with the NDMA’s earlier seasonal outlook for April to June, which had already highlighted the likelihood of above-normal temperatures across Pakistan.
According to the advisory, severe heatwave conditions are expected in Sindh, southern Punjab and parts of Balochistan. Major cities including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan and Turbat are expected to experience prolonged extreme heat.
Central Punjab and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa may also see rising temperatures, although intermittent weather systems are forecast to bring relief in some areas through rain and wind activity.
Between April 24 and 29, dust storms, gusty winds and thunderstorms are expected in upper and central Punjab, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad and surrounding districts. Northern Balochistan regions such as Quetta, Ziarat, Kalat and Khuzdar are also likely to receive rainfall during this period.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, districts including Peshawar, Swat, Abbottabad and Chitral may experience scattered rain and strong winds, while Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are forecast to see intermittent showers and thunderstorms.
Despite some rainfall activity, Sindh is expected to remain largely hot and dry, with rising temperatures posing ongoing health risks.
The NDMA warned that the heatwave could increase cases of heatstroke, dehydration and related health emergencies. Citizens have been advised to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak hours.
Authorities have been instructed to activate heatwave response plans, establish cooling centres and ensure hospitals remain on high alert. The public has also been encouraged to stay informed through the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application for real-time updates and safety guidance.