Pakistan is bracing for extreme weather conditions as the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a severe heatwave alert for multiple regions of the country, effective until May 5.
The authority warned that large parts of Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan will remain under intense and prolonged heat, posing serious health risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
Cities under severe heat stress
According to the NDMA, several major urban centres are expected to remain in the grip of extreme temperatures, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Sindh, Pakistan, and Bahawalpur.
The spokesperson added that Rahim Yar Khan, Multan, and Turbat are also expected to experience extreme hot and dry conditions over the coming days.
Temperature surge expected in central Punjab, KP
The NDMA cautioned that the heatwave is not limited to southern regions. A noticeable rise in temperatures is also expected in parts of central Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expanding the potential impact of the hot spell.
Authorities have been instructed to remain vigilant as weather patterns evolve, particularly with the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and water shortages increasing sharply.
Public safety advisory
The NDMA has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, especially during peak afternoon hours. People have been advised to drink plenty of water, wear light clothing, and take preventive measures to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.
Institutions, employers, and local administrations have also been asked to adjust work routines and ensure the availability of shade and hydration for workers.
Emergency heatwave response activated
As part of its heatwave response plan, the NDMA has directed all relevant federal, provincial, and district-level institutions to activate emergency preparedness measures immediately.
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Hospitals have been placed on alert, while instructions have been issued for the establishment of cooling centres in vulnerable areas. Local authorities have been told to remain ready to respond to any weather-related emergency.
Dry conditions to persist in Sindh, Balochistan
The NDMA said hot and dry weather is likely to continue across most parts of southern Punjab and Sindh, with temperatures expected to rise further in inland districts.
In coastal Balochistan, including Gwadar, dry weather is expected to persist, with rising daytime temperatures adding to discomfort levels.
Rain forecast offers limited relief
Despite the heatwave, the NDMA said rainfall is expected between April 24 and 29 in all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir.
Some areas of Sindh, including Hyderabad, Badin, and Mithi, may receive light rain and gusty winds on April 24.
However, officials cautioned that this rainfall is localized and unlikely to significantly ease the broader heatwave conditions.
Preparedness urged amid climate stress
The NDMA said the early warning aims to help authorities prepare in advance, reduce pressure on health services, and minimize loss of life during extreme weather.
With climate-driven heatwaves becoming more frequent, the authority stressed the importance of public awareness, coordinated response, and preventive action to protect lives.
