PMD warns Karachi residents of heatstroke risk starting Sunday

KARACHI: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that Karachi will experience rising heat intensity starting Sunday, as heat wave-like conditions are expected to develop between April 20 and 23. The Met Office attributed the anticipated rise in temperatures to a shift in wind direction.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department also cautioned that heatwave-like conditions could return to other parts of Sindh starting April 24. The Met Office forecast hot and humid weather in Karachi for the next 24 hours.

The Met Office expects Karachi’s maximum temperature to range between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius, while it recorded the minimum temperature at 26.5°C. Humidity levels remain at 77%, adding to the discomfort across the city.

Strong winds are likely to blow intermittently during this period, while sea breezes continue to flow at a moderate pace of 12 kilometres per hour.

The PMD spokesperson, Anjum Nazir, said last week that Karachi would witness a heat wave at the end of the ongoing month, prompting the current forecast.

He said that with temperatures expected to remain above average between April and June, South Punjab and parts of Sindh will continue to face heat wave-like conditions.

The PMD has already warned that excessive heat may cause dust storms and windstorms, which could damage vulnerable infrastructure such as electric poles, trees, vehicles, and solar panels.

The PMD advises the general public, particularly children, women, and senior citizens, to avoid direct sun exposure and stay well-hydrated.

The Met Office said that a westerly wind system may affect the upper parts of the country, potentially bringing rain and hail to these areas until April 20, hinting at improving weather conditions in other parts of the country.