PMD Heatwave Alert Warns of Rising Temperatures Across Pakistan

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a fresh heatwave alert, warning that temperatures are expected to rise sharply in several parts of the country in the coming days. The advisory, released on Monday, points to increasing heat stress in South Punjab, Upper Sindh and Balochistan as Pakistan enters the most intense phase of the summer season.

According to the Met Office, mild heatwave conditions are likely to develop in the southern parts of the country from April 29 to May 3. The warning comes as many plain areas are already experiencing above-normal temperatures, raising concerns for public health, agriculture, livestock and outdoor workers.

The PMD said temperatures in vulnerable regions may remain four to six degrees Celsius above normal. In many plain areas, daytime mercury levels are expected to range between 43°C and 45°C, while the most heat-prone zones may face even harsher conditions during peak heatwave spells.

Officials advised citizens to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, especially during afternoon hours when heat intensity is highest. Health experts also urged people to increase water intake, avoid strenuous outdoor activity and take special care of children, elderly people, patients and those working in open areas.

The advisory noted that El Nino Southern Oscillation and Indian Ocean Dipole conditions are currently neutral, but there remains a possibility that El Nino conditions may develop during the May-July period. Such changes can influence regional weather patterns and may contribute to prolonged or more severe heat conditions.

The PMD also said upper parts of the country may see temporary relief because of westerly weather systems. These systems are expected to affect northern areas from the night of April 27 to April 29 and again from May 3 to May 5, possibly bringing a short-lived drop in temperatures by two to four degrees Celsius.

Despite that relief in northern areas, the southern belt remains at greater risk. South Punjab, Upper Sindh and southern and eastern Balochistan historically record Pakistan’s highest temperatures during May and June, with extreme episodes sometimes pushing heat levels close to 52°C.

The alert is significant because heatwaves in Pakistan are not only a weather issue but also a public-safety challenge. Prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke and pressure on hospitals, particularly in densely populated urban areas where power outages, water shortages and limited shade can worsen the impact.

Farmers may also face crop and livestock risks if high temperatures persist. Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely and issue further updates as weather systems develop. The next few days will be important for provincial administrations, health departments and disaster-management teams as they prepare public messaging and emergency-response measures for heat-prone districts.