Heatwaves: Temperature in Pakistan likely to cross 50 degree Celsius

A severe heatwave is set to engulf Pakistan and northern regions of India in the coming days, with temperatures expected to soar as high as 50 degrees Celsius in parts of the country, meteorological officials have warned.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a blistering heatwave will persist from June 20 through June 24, with day temperatures likely to remain 4 to 6 degrees Celsius above normal in Punjab and some areas of Sindh province.

"Temperatures are expected to climb as high as 50 degrees in southern Punjab and some areas of Sindh," said Sardar Sarfraz, the chief meteorologist at PMD. He added that northern areas housing over 7,000 glaciers could also see temperatures 2 to 4 degrees above normal during this period.

🚨 A severe heatwave is expected in North India & Pakistan from this weekend, temperatures likely to cross 50°C in Pakistan. Further extending towards India, New Delhi will also be near 46-48°C next week. TC people residing in North. pic.twitter.com/M28D5aMKoR

— Mumbai Rains (@rushikesh_agre_) May 21, 2024

The PMD has issued a heatwave advisory, urging people to stay indoors and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. The scorching conditions are expected to be particularly severe in densely populated cities like Lahore, where temperatures may reach a sweltering 46°C (114.8°F).

The intense heat wave is not limited to Pakistan alone. India is also bracing for extreme heat, with temperatures in the capital New Delhi likely to hover around 46-48°C (114.8-118.4°F) next week, according to weather forecasts. Other major Indian cities like Jodhpur, Gwalior, and Allahabad are expected to sizzle at 46°C (114.8°F), 47°C (116.6°F), and 44°C (111.2°F), respectively, in the coming days.

The searing heatwave comes on the heels of a prolonged spell of high temperatures that have gripped parts of South Asia in recent weeks, raising concerns over water shortages, crop failures, and power outages.

Health authorities have advised people to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.