ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is bracing for a significant heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar between April 22 and 27, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The agency issued an urgent advisory on the potential for unusually hot and dry weather throughout the country during this period, particularly affecting regions such as Balochistan and Sindh, where temperatures are predicted to exceed normal levels.
The heatwave is also anticipated to impact other parts of the country, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, though some relief may come in the form of light rain in select areas.
While much of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including districts like Abbottabad, Peshawar, and Swat, will likely experience dry and warm conditions, there will be occasional rainfall in certain districts, providing brief respite from the extreme heat. Similarly, Gilgit-Baltistan and parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir are expected to see some rain, which could help to alleviate the soaring temperatures.
The NDMA has urged local authorities to remain on high alert, particularly in regions prone to extreme heat. The public is advised to take precautions by staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and protecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
This heatwave comes at a time when Pakistan has been grappling with increasingly frequent and severe weather events, highlighting the urgent need for preparedness against climate-related risks. As the heat intensifies, ensuring the safety of citizens remains a priority for authorities.
