Karachi, April 22, 2024 – The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a hot weather alert for southern regions of Pakistan for Tuesday, April 23, 2024, advising residents to brace for significantly high temperatures.
According to the latest weather forecast, most parts of the country are expected to experience mainly dry conditions, with particularly hot weather predicted for the southern regions. The PMD also noted that a shallow westerly wave is currently affecting the upper parts of the country, with another westerly wave expected to approach the western regions on the night of April 24.
The forecast for Monday, April 22, similarly predicts dry weather for most parts of Pakistan. However, rain-wind/thunderstorms may occur in Islamabad, the Potohar region, Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and adjoining hilly areas.
Over the past 24 hours, the weather remained dry in most parts of the country, with partly cloudy conditions observed in a few areas. Isolated rain and thunderstorms were recorded in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Notable rainfall included 24 mm in Malam Jabba, 16 mm in Saidu Sharif, and smaller amounts in other regions including Punjab and Kashmir.
Recorded temperatures have soared, with Shaheed Benazirabad hitting a high of 42°C, followed closely by Padidan and Dadu at 41°C. These temperatures are a clear indicator of the intense heat affecting the southern areas, underscoring the PMD’s alert.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions against the heat, including staying hydrated, avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun during peak hours, and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing. The older people and those with health conditions should be particularly cautious, as high temperatures can exacerbate health issues.
Local authorities are taking steps to mitigate the impact of the heat, ensuring that emergency services are prepared to respond to heat-related incidents. Public awareness campaigns are also being intensified to educate the populace on how to stay safe during the heatwave conditions.
In light of these weather conditions, the PMD has also issued guidance for farmers, suggesting irrigation measures to prevent crop damage during this critical growing period. The agriculture sector, crucial to the local economy, often bears the brunt of extreme weather events, making timely advisories particularly important.
As the country braces for another hot day, the PMD continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. Citizens are urged to follow the PMD’s forecasts and advisories to stay informed and prepared.
