Heat wave to persist; mercury reaches 42°C, feels like 46°C

LAHORE:With a real feel of 46°C on the roads, the mercury reached 42°C in the provincial metropolis here Tuesday while Met office warned that the heat wave will continue.

The officials said most plain parts of the country would remain under the grip of severe heat wave for the next four days, due to which, day temperature was likely to remain 04 to 06°C above normal in southern half (Sindh, southern Punjab and Balochistan) and day temperature was likely to remain 05 to 07°C above normal in upper half (central & upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan). Met officials said continental air was prevailing over most parts of the country while high pressure at upper atmospheric level was prevailing over central/southern parts of the country and likely to persist during next four days.

They predicted that mainly hot and dry weather was expected in most parts of the country while very hot in plain areas during daytime during the next 24 hours. Tuesday’s maximum temperature was recorded at Sibbi where mercury reached 48°C, while in Lahore, it was 42°C.

Meanwhile, PDMA Punjab has issued instructions to ensure the establishment of temporary sheds in livestock markets ahead of Eidul Azha. Director General of PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia said that water supply for animals, establishment of veterinary health centres should also be established for livestock. Heatwave and heat waves are likely to continue in the month of June as well. Mobile medical teams should be deployed in collaboration with Rescue 1122 to respond to emergency situations. Water sprinklers or misting fans should be installed regularly at all locations to suppress dust in markets. Awareness banners on heat wave prevention and safety tips should be displayed at the entrance and exit of livestock markets. Loudspeakers should be used to inform buyers and traders to stay hydrated, use shaded areas, and immediately report any emergencies.