Karachi to experience severe heatwave as mercury likely to hit 42°C

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a severe weather alert as scorching heatwave conditions are set to grip most parts of Sindh from Monday (today) to Friday, pushing temperatures as high as 51°C in upper districts of the province.

The metropolis is also bracing for intense heat, with the Karachi division expected to witness maximum temperatures soaring between 39 and 42°C from June 9 to 12.

According to the PMD, the extreme weather is being driven by a high-pressure system developed in the upper atmosphere. Under its influence, daytime temperatures across the province will remain 4 to 6°C above normal. Plain areas may also experience isolated dust storms due to the intense atmospheric heating.

The mercury is predicted to hit a blistering 48 to 51°C in Sukkur, Shikarpur, Kambar Shahdadkot, Jacobabad, Larkana, Mohenjo-daro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, and Naushahro Feroze. Meanwhile, districts including Tharparkar, Badin, Hyderabad, Matiari, Tando Muhammad Khan, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Jamshoro, and Sanghar will see temperatures ranging between 42 and 45°C.

In light of the impending heatwave, authorities have requested deputy commissioners, chairmen of District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs), and relevant line departments to immediately implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) and take necessary precautionary measures.

The public, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, women, and senior citizens, have been strongly advised to remain extra cautious. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight between 10:00am and 4:00pm, ensure constant hydration, and use water judiciously.

Farmers have also been advised to manage their crops and livestock in accordance with the harsh weather conditions, while energy sectors brace for an expected surge in electricity demand.