Karachi, May 20, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a warning on Monday, alerting residents of Sindh and Punjab to expect high temperatures from Tuesday, May 21, 2024.
The PMD forecasts that daytime temperatures in these regions will be 4 to 6°C above normal from May 21 to May 23, and 6 to 8°C above normal from May 23 to May 27.
The alert extends to other parts of the country as well. Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan are also expected to experience temperatures 4 to 6°C above normal from May 21 to May 27.
Synoptic Situation
The PMD attributes the unusual heat to prevailing continental air over most parts of Pakistan. This weather pattern is contributing to the sustained high temperatures and dry conditions.
Weather Overview for Monday, May 20, 2024
On Monday, mainly dry weather was observed across most of Pakistan. Central and southern regions experienced windstorms and dust-raising winds. However, isolated places in upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir saw partly cloudy weather with rain-windstorms and thunderstorms.
Forecast for Tuesday, May 21, 2024
The PMD predicts that hot and dry weather will prevail in most parts of the country on Tuesday. Central and southern regions are likely to experience very hot conditions.
Recent Weather Conditions
Over the past 24 hours, hot and dry weather was prevalent in most parts of the country, with very hot conditions in the central and southern regions. Isolated rain-thunderstorms occurred in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan.
Rainfall recorded in the past 24 hours includes:
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Parachinar 08 mm, Kalam 02 mm
• Gilgit Baltistan: Bagrote 04 mm, Gilgit 03 mm, Bunji 02 mm, Hunza 02 mm
Highest Maximum Temperatures Recorded Today (°C):
• Sibbi: 48°C
• Bahawalnagar, Bhakkar, Kot Addu, Mohenjodharo, Shaheed Benazirabad, Jacobabad: 47°C
• Sakrand, Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Jhang, Khanewal, Larkana: 46°C
The PMD advises residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions to cope with the extreme heat. Staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing can help mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures.
As the country braces for this heatwave, authorities and healthcare professionals are urging the public to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and vulnerable populations, such as the older and children, from the adverse effects of the extreme weather conditions.
