The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a severe heatwave alert for the provinces of Sindh and Punjab, effective from May 21, 2024.
In a statement released on Thursday, the PMD warned of heatwave conditions intensifying over most parts of the country, particularly in Punjab and Sindh, starting from May 21 and escalating to severe levels from May 23 to May 27.
According to the PMD, daytime temperatures are expected to soar 04 to 06°C above normal in Sindh and Punjab from May 21 to May 23, with an increase to 06 to 08°C above normal from May 23 to May 27. Additionally, day temperatures are projected to remain 04 to 06°C above normal in Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Balochistan during the same period.
The PMD further informed that a shallow westerly wave is anticipated to affect the upper parts of the country from May 16 (evening/night). Under the influence of this weather system, various regions are expected to experience adverse weather conditions:
• Balochistan: Dust storms, thunderstorms, and isolated rain are forecasted in several districts including Quetta, Zhob, Ziarat, Kalat, and Mastung from May 16 (evening) to May 19.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Dust storms, thunderstorms, and isolated rain are expected in numerous districts such as Chitral, Swat, Abbottabad, Peshawar, and Mardan from May 16 (evening) to May 19.
• Gilgit-Baltistan/Kashmir: Rain, wind, and thunderstorms are predicted in various areas including Gilgit, Skardu, Muzaffarabad, and Rawalakot from May 16 (evening) to May 19.
• Punjab/Islamabad: Dust storms, thunderstorms, and isolated rain are anticipated in regions like Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha from May 16 (evening) to May 18.
• Sindh: Dust storms, thunderstorms, and isolated rain are expected in Sukkur, Larkana, and Dadu on May 17 and May 18.
The PMD has issued advisory notices regarding potential impacts and precautionary measures:
• Farmers are advised to manage crops accordingly.
• The general public is urged to minimize exposure to direct sunlight.
• Judicious use of water is recommended across all aspects of life.
• Extreme dry and heatwave conditions may increase the risk of bushfires and forest fires in vulnerable areas of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Northeast Balochistan.
Authorities are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent any adverse consequences during the impending heatwave spell. The PMD’s alert serves as a crucial reminder for individuals and communities to prioritize safety and precautionary measures during periods of extreme weather conditions.
