Pakistan is bracing for increasingly intense and extended summer heatwaves, with the Meteorological Department warning that rising temperatures will become more severe in the coming years. Large parts of the country are already experiencing a heatwave, with daytime temperatures soaring several degrees above the average.
The weather department forecasts temperatures 5 to 7 degrees higher than usual across upper and central Pakistan. Deputy Director Irfan Virk noted that the spring season has noticeably shortened in recent years, while summers are starting earlier and lasting longer. He attributed these changes partly to urbanization and deforestation, which have disrupted natural weather patterns.
Although some rainfall is expected soon in northern regions, providing brief relief, temperatures are predicted to climb again shortly after. Cities like Lahore have already seen temperatures reach 29 degrees Celsius by morning, with highs expected to hit 42 degrees later in the day. Hot and humid conditions are also affecting Karachi and other parts of Sindh, where people seek relief with cold drinks amid soaring heat.
Islamabad is not spared either, with daytime temperatures near 40 degrees Celsius expected to persist until at least May 19. Balochistan is experiencing some of the highest temperatures, with Sibbi and Turbat reaching close to 50 degrees Celsius.
This trend highlights the urgent challenges Pakistan faces as climate change intensifies, demanding increased preparedness for hotter and longer summers nationwide.