Heatwave alert for Sindh as GLOF threat looms in northern areas
KARACHI: A heatwave alert has been issued for Sindh, with temperatures in Karachi and other parts of the province expected to rise further in the coming days, while a separate weather system is likely to trigger heavy rain and glacial hazards in northern regions of the country.
Karachi experienced very hot weather on Saturday, with the maximum daytime temperature climbing to 39 Celsius and humidity dropping to 38 percent, reflecting intensifying heat conditions in the city. The forecast indicates that hot and dry weather is likely to persist through early next week.
According to the Met Office outlook on Saturday, the mercury in Karachi may rise to around 40 Celsius on Sunday and further increase to 41 Celsius on Monday, with humidity levels fluctuating between 50 and 70 percent. The ongoing heatwave is expected to extend into the next week.
Hot to very hot and dry weather is also likely to prevail over most parts of Sindh. In central and upper Sindh, heatwave conditions are expected to continue until Sunday, with daytime maximum temperatures 3 to 5 Celsius above normal in Jamshoro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Kashmore, Ghotki, Sanghar, Khairpur, Naushero Feroze, Jacobabad, Larkana and Sukkur districts.
Meanwhile, dust-thunderstorms and gusty winds are likely to affect Jacobabad, Larkana, Kashmore, Shikarpur, Sukkur and Ghotki Districts till Sunday.
Amid prevailing heatwave conditions, the general public especially children, women and senior citizens has been advised to take precautionary measures. People should avoid direct exposure to sunlight during daytime hours and ensure adequate hydration.
Farmers have been advised to manage agricultural activities, particularly wheat harvesting, in view of the weather conditions and to take special care of livestock. Authorities have also warned that wind and dust storms may damage loose structures, including electric poles, trees, vehicles and solar panels in vulnerable areas.
Separately, the Met Office warned that a moderate westerly wave is expected to enter the upper regions of Pakistan from May 3, 2026. During this period, widespread rain, wind-thunderstorms and isolated heavy falls are anticipated across Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Meteorologists warn that the sudden rise in temperatures followed by widespread precipitation could significantly increase the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), debris flows and flash flooding in vulnerable areas. These include Hoper, Ghulkin, Shishper, Yasin, Phander, Badswat, lower Hunza, Nagar, Ghanche, Shigar, Swat, upper Chitral, Dir and Astore.
Residents of glaciated valleys have been advised to remain vigilant and observe safety precautions, including avoiding riverbanks and stream beds during rainfall, monitoring local nullahs for sudden changes in water colour or unusual sounds, and securing livestock and essential belongings on higher ground.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026