The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecasted an unseasonably high-temperature spell for Karachi, expected to grip the metropolitan city on Sunday, October 27. According to PMD projections, residents of Karachi should brace themselves for temperatures soaring between 39 to 41 degrees Celsius, a marked departure from typical seasonal averages.
The PMD’s weather advisory paints a challenging picture for Karachiites, anticipating hot and dry conditions likely to extend throughout Sunday. This surge in temperature is not confined to Karachi alone; it mirrors a wider pattern predicted across Sindh’s landscape. PMD forecasters caution that daytime temperatures in several districts of Sindh are expected to hover around 3 to 5 degrees above the norm for this time of year.
The latest synoptic observations from the PMD identify a wave of continental air affecting the entire country, a system believed to be largely responsible for the impending heat. This continental air mass, dry and warm in nature, has minimized the presence of cooling breezes, allowing temperatures to escalate significantly in the region.
The agency also highlighted similar atmospheric conditions prevailing in the past 24 hours, with dry weather registered in most parts of the country, particularly Sindh. The hottest locations recorded on October 26 included Tandojam, Hyderabad, Lasbella, and Shaheed Benazirabad, each experiencing peak temperatures of 42 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Chhor and Mirpur Khas at 41 degrees Celsius. This extreme heat not only underscores a regional trend but also raises concerns about the potential impact on public health, particularly for vulnerable populations in urban areas.
As the anticipated heatwave sets in, experts advise residents to take precautionary measures against heat-related health risks. Staying hydrated, avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun during peak hours, and opting for light, breathable clothing are recommended steps. The PMD urges citizens to stay informed through updates, as evolving weather conditions could pose additional challenges over the coming days.
While the PMD’s forecast for the entire country on October 27 indicates predominantly dry weather, the Sindh region stands out as an exception, projected to bear the brunt of these extreme temperatures. Karachi, as the hub of Sindh’s urban population, faces the added challenge of coping with elevated heat amidst an arid climate.