Islamabad, May 19, 2025 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a new heatwave alert for multiple regions across the country, warning of significantly above-normal temperatures during the ongoing week.
This alert marks a continuation of intense weather conditions being driven by a strong high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere.
According to the PMD, this persistent high-pressure pattern is expected to cause a heatwave that will affect both the southern and northern halves of Pakistan from May 20 to May 24. In the southern regions — including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan — daytime temperatures are forecasted to remain 4 to 6°C above the seasonal average. Meanwhile, in the northern regions — covering central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir — the rise is expected to be even more severe, with temperatures soaring 5 to 7°C above normal.
The PMD also noted that the extreme heat may generate duststorms and gusty winds in plain areas due to excessive surface heating, particularly in southern and central Pakistan.
Highlighting the potential impact of the heatwave, the PMD has issued several advisories. The general public, especially vulnerable groups such as children, the old-age, and women, are urged to avoid direct exposure to sunlight, particularly during peak daytime hours. People are strongly advised to remain hydrated and take appropriate precautions to prevent heatstroke.
Farmers have been advised by the PMD to plan agricultural activities in accordance with the forecast, ensuring their crops and livestock are protected from the extreme conditions. Additionally, authorities have been warned that rising temperatures in northern Pakistan may accelerate the rate of snowmelt, potentially impacting water flows in rivers and streams.
The PMD emphasized the importance of the judicious use of water during this period and called on all relevant departments and authorities to remain on high alert. Timely action and precautionary measures will be essential to avoid any possible emergency situations arising from the heatwave conditions.