PMD Warns of Severe Eid Heatwave Across Pakistan

Pakistan is heading into Eidul Azha under a major heat warning, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting heatwave conditions across the country from May 25 to May 31. The alert comes just days before Eid, when travel, livestock markets, outdoor work and public movement are expected to rise sharply nationwide.

According to the PMD advisory, high pressure is likely to develop in the upper atmosphere on May 25 and strengthen from May 26, creating conditions for a moderate to severe heatwave. The warning suggests that daytime temperatures in several areas may climb well above the seasonal average, increasing risks for vulnerable citizens and outdoor workers.

Some of the highest temperatures are expected in parts of Sindh, Balochistan, southern Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the mercury may reach between 47°C and 50°C. Districts including Jacobabad, Larkana, Dadu, Hyderabad, Turbat, Panjgur, Dera Ismail Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Sargodha and Mianwali are among the areas expected to face the most intense heat.

The advisory also warned that temperatures in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Kohat, Muzaffarabad, Mirpur and several adjoining districts may rise to between 42°C and 45°C. In northern regions, including parts of Malakand, Hazara, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, maximum temperatures could still remain significantly above normal.

The PMD urged the public to take precautions, particularly women, children and elderly people who are more vulnerable to heat stress. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, drink sufficient water and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours, especially around markets, bus terminals and Eid-related gatherings.

The timing of the heatwave is especially important because Eidul Azha is expected to bring heavy public movement. Livestock markets on the outskirts of major cities are already drawing large crowds, while butchers, vendors, transport workers and municipal staff are likely to spend extended hours outdoors during the holiday period.

Pakistan has faced repeated extreme weather episodes in recent years, with heatwaves becoming a growing public safety concern in urban and rural areas alike. Earlier this month, Karachi recorded severe heat, with officials reporting deaths as temperatures surged and hot winds made conditions more dangerous for residents already dealing with power and water pressures.

The forecast also carries implications for farmers and livestock owners. The PMD advised agricultural communities to plan field activities carefully and protect animals from heat exposure, as prolonged high temperatures can affect crop management, milk production, animal health and rural livelihoods.

The wider impact could be felt across health services, electricity demand and water supply systems. Hospitals may need to prepare for heat exhaustion and dehydration cases, while higher use of fans, air coolers and air conditioners could strain power networks during a period when many families will be observing Eid holidays.

Authorities are expected to monitor the situation closely as the heatwave period approaches. Public awareness, responsible water and electricity use, and timely local administration measures will be critical to reducing health risks and keeping Eid travel, markets and community activity as safe as possible.