ISLAMABAD: Punjab continues to endure an unrelenting heatwave expected to last until at least June 12, with temperatures remaining alarmingly above seasonal norms, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) confirmed on Monday.
The extreme conditions have raised serious health concerns, especially as temperatures are hovering 4°C to 7°C above average across various regions.
Sargodha recorded the province’s highest temperature on Monday at a blazing 47°C.
Major cities such as Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad followed closely, hitting 45°C.
Other districts including Toba Tek Singh, Okara, Sahiwal, and Mandi Bahauddin also reported dangerously high temperatures ranging between 40°C and 42°C.
PDMA Mobilises Emergency Response
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has placed all departments on high alert.
Key emergency measures are underway, such as clean drinking water supply in Cholistan, heatstroke counters in hospitals, and stocking of essential medicines.
Hospitals across Punjab have activated heatstroke response units to handle a potential spike in patients.
Social media advisories are being used to alert the public about health hazards posed by the extreme heat.
Special emphasis is being placed on protecting vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses.
Citizens are urged to stay indoors during peak heat hours (10 AM to 4 PM), wear light cotton clothing, and stay well-hydrated.
The PDMA also encourages the public to report any emergencies to its 1129 helpline.
Pakistan’s Warming Trend Accelerates
The Economic Survey 2024-25, released Monday, reported that 2024 was Pakistan’s ninth warmest year on record.
The national average temperature reached 23.52°C — 0.71°C above the long-term norm.
July 2024 marked the second-hottest July in 64 years, while October 2024 broke records as the hottest October ever, exceeding the average by 2.48°C.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has also issued a similar heat alert for Gilgit-Baltistan, predicting a 5°C to 7°C temperature rise that may accelerate glacier melt.
These alarming climatic indicators underscore the urgency of climate adaptation and public awareness in combating extreme weather events.
