PMD alert as heatwave to sweep country

Islamabad:The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast severe heatwave conditions across the country until the end of the current month, urging people and authorities to remain vigilant.

According to a spokesperson for the PMD, a high-pressure system developing in the upper atmosphere will tighten its grip over most parts of the country, causing temperatures to soar well above normal levels. In Sindh, southern Punjab and Balochistan, the daytime temperatures are expected to remain 5-7°C above normal until May 1.

In central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, temperatures will likely stay 4-6°C above normal during the period. The spokesperson forecast a relief from the sweltering conditions, with the arrival of a new weather system on April 30. The system will bring rains coupled with wind and thunderstorms.

AJK, Islamabad, Pothohar region, northeast Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan are likely to receive isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms between April 30 and May 1, gradually easing the heatwave. The PMD advised people, especially children, women and the elderly, to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours and to stay well hydrated. According to it, growers should plan their crop harvesting activities, especially wheat, carefully in light of the prevailing weather conditions and to ensure the safety of their livestock.