NDMA issues heat wave alert as temperatures set to cross 42 degrees

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has put out a heatwave alert, covering May 19 to 26, basically warning people about extremely high temperatures in several regions of Pakistan.

As per the National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC), harsh heatwave conditions are expected over Sindh, South Punjab, and eastern Balochistan, where temperatures could rise beyond 42 degrees Celsius over the next few days.

Punjab will see the worst impact in places like Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalnagar, Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Sargodha, Lodhran, Khanewal, Vehari, and Lahore.

In Sindh, the advisory includes Karachi, Hyderabad, Jacobabad, Khairpur, Sukkur, Larkana, Dadu, Naushero Feroze, Kashmore, Tharparkar, Shaheed Benazirabad, Mirpurkhas, and Badin.

For Balochistan, the warning also extends to districts such as Turbat, Sibi, Uthal, Jhal Magsi, Dera Murad Jamali, Nasirabad, Jafarabad, Usta Muhammad, Kachhi, Lasbela, and Panjgur. NDMA asked the public not to get unnecessary sun during peak hours, keep drinking fluids, and give extra attention to children, elderly people, and anyone who has health conditions.

On the other hand, NDMA also cautioned about a higher danger of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), flash floods, and landslides in the northern regions from May 19 to 23, mainly because temperatures are climbing.

The areas that matter most include Khurdopin, Ashkoman, Dasu, Shisper, Hunarcho, Gulkin, Darkut, and Arkar valleys. NDMA said all relevant departments should stay ready, and make sure precautionary steps are taken for public safety, all the way.