The city of Karachi, Pakistan, is bracing for an intense period of extreme heat in the coming days, according to predictions from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). Highs of 40°C to 42°C (104°F to 108°F) are predicted, signaling the start of a serious heatwave.
Sardar Sarfaraz, the chief meteorologist, has warned that Karachi will grapple with hot and humid conditions for at least the next ten days. Maximum temperatures could reach as high as 36°C (97°F), exacerbating discomfort levels for residents.
Unfortunately, no rainfall is likely during this stretch, providing no relief. Winds currently blowing at 11 km/h coupled with 70% humidity will further amplify the heat index.
While evenings may offer some marginal reprieve with partly cloudy skies, weather analyst Jawwad Memon notes the threat extends beyond just Karachi, as the PMD has issued nationwide heatwave warnings for various Pakistani regions.
Though Islamabad has recently experienced a temporary respite due to rains, the Director General of Meteorology, Mahr Sahibzad Khan, cautions that sizzling conditions lie ahead. Increased rainfall this year, especially in Sindh and Balochistan, is also expected to influence overall weather patterns.
In preparation, experts urge residents to take preventative measures like wearing protective clothing and staying well-hydrated to mitigate the adverse impacts of the impending heatwave.
