On Sunday, several districts in the Sindh province endured extreme hot weather, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
Jacobabad was the hottest spot, recording a blistering 47°C. Mohenjodaro, Dadu, Larkana, and Nawabshah were not far behind, each registering temperatures of 46°C.
The PMD attributed the sweltering conditions to the prevalence of continental air over most parts of the country. Additionally, a shallow westerly wave is affecting northern regions, moving northeastward, bringing some relief in those areas.
On May 19, 2024, the weather was predominantly hot and dry across the nation. However, isolated areas in upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir experienced partly cloudy weather with rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms. This weather pattern provided a stark contrast to the oppressive heat felt in Sindh and other southern regions.
Looking ahead to Monday, May 20, 2024, the PMD has forecasted that the intense heat will persist. Most parts of the country will continue to experience hot and dry conditions. In central and southern regions, including Sindh, very hot weather accompanied by windstorms and dust-raising winds is expected. Meanwhile, the northern parts of the country, specifically upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the Potohar region, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir, may again see partly cloudy weather with rain, windstorms, and thunderstorms.
The past 24 hours have seen hot and dry weather dominating most of Pakistan, with the southern and central regions bearing the brunt of the heat. However, isolated places in upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and Gilgit-Baltistan experienced rain and thunderstorms. Notable rainfall measurements included 12mm in Kalam, 11mm in Dir, and 9mm in Malam Jabba within Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. In Balochistan, Kalat received 15mm of rain, while Panjgur and Quetta each recorded 2mm. Gilgit-Baltistan saw minimal precipitation, with Gupis reporting just 1mm. In Punjab, Noor Pur Thal also recorded 1mm of rainfall.
The intense heatwave in Sindh is a cause for concern, with health officials advising residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses. Citizens are urged to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours, and take measures to stay cool. The PMD continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary to ensure public safety and preparedness.
As the region braces for more hot weather, the authorities and citizens alike are on high alert, hoping for a respite from the relentless heat.
