Karachi Sizzles as Heatwave Intensifies; PMD Issues Heatstroke Advisory

Karachi: The port city of Karachi is reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 40°C and sea breezes completely suspended, prompting the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) to issue a heatstroke advisory for residents.

The PMD reported that the city is experiencing hot and dry conditions, with humidity levels reaching 61 per cent on Wednesday. The absence of cooling sea winds has compounded the sweltering heat, significantly increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially heatstroke.

“Hot and dry winds from the southeast, blowing at speeds of 25 to 35 kilometres per hour, are dominating the city,” said a PMD spokesperson. “Sea breeze is expected to make a partial recovery by evening, but no rain is forecast.”

The PMD has advised residents to limit outdoor activities, avoid direct sunlight, and stay hydrated—particularly between 11am and 4pm, the peak hours of heat intensity.

Heatwave Grips Much of Pakistan

Similar scorching conditions have been reported across southern parts of Sindh and Balochistan, where the Met Office warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist, particularly in the plains.

In Punjab, the day remained mostly hot and dry, though relief is expected in the form of scattered evening showers in cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, Rawalpindi, and Bahawalpur.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also witnessed high temperatures, with rain forecast in areas such as Mansehra, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Haripur, Chitral, and Dir.

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The federal capital, Islamabad, is expected to remain hot and dry during the day, but rain and wind—possibly accompanied by hail—are likely during the evening or night.

Meanwhile, parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms, bringing some respite from the prevailing heatwave across much of the country.

Authorities have urged the public to take necessary precautions and remain alert to weather advisories as extreme heat conditions continue.