A severe heatwave has taken over Pakistan, forcing the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to announce a heat alert until April 27. The country braces for extreme heat and dry weather in the upcoming days.
Karachi suffered the worst effects of the severe heatwave on Monday. The temperature soared to 41 degrees Celsius. Without the cooling effect of sea breezes, the real feel went beyond 44 degrees Celsius. This marked an increase of six degrees from the normal average for April.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasted that sea breezes might return by Thursday. However, until then, Karachi and other parts will continue to face the harsh conditions brought by the intense heatwave.
Lahore also experienced the heat. Though the temperature officially touched 36 degrees Celsius, residents complained that it felt closer to 41 degrees. Rawalpindi reported similar conditions. The city recorded 36 degrees, but the heat index pushed the feel to around 40 degrees Celsius.
The severe heatwave extended its grip to several parts of Sindh. In Tharparkar and Larkana, the mercury rose to 41 degrees Celsius, while the perceived heat felt like 43 degrees. Hyderabad and Sukkur were not spared either. Temperatures of 38 degrees Celsius were recorded, but they felt more oppressive, touching 43 and 41 degrees respectively.
In Balochistan, Lasbela faced a fierce battle against the hot spell. The thermometer hit 40 degrees Celsius, with the heat index making it feel hotter than 43 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, the northern regions of Pakistan can expect partly cloudy skies. However, even there, temperatures are likely to rise under the impact of the current hot spell.
Both the PMD and NDMA have strongly advised the public to avoid unnecessary outings. Citizens are urged to drink plenty of water and take preventive measures to protect themselves from the sun during this severe heatwave.
