PMD issues heatwave advisory for several Sindh district

KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday predicted a heatwave for several districts of Sindh, with daytime temperature expected to reach 5 to 7°C above normal.

This marks the first heatwave alert issued this season, with hot and dry weather predicted to continue over the upper and central Sindh.

Larkana, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Qambar Shahdadkot, Ghotki, Sukkur, Naushahro Feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad, Khairpur, Jamshoro, Hyderabad, Matiari, and Sanghar are among the districts that are most likely to be impacted.

According to Met Office, these regions may have abnormally high daytime temperatures, which could pose health hazards, especially to elderly people, children, and outdoor workers.

Furthermore, the metrological department said that Karachi is expected to stay hot and dry as sea breezes are expected to remain cut off throughout the day.

The coastal city may see maximum temperatures of up to 38°C and humidity levels of up to 80–90%, which would increase discomfort and the likelihood of a heat index.

Earlier in the night, the minimum temperature recorded in Karachi was 25.7 degrees Celsius, while the humidity level currently stands at 64%, the department reported.

Morever, strong winds may also blow over southern Sindh districts including Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, and Tharparkar.

The public has been urged to take precautions, drink plenty of water, and avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, particularly from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.