Heatwave Alert: Punjab braces for temperatures up to 47°C

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a heatwave warning across Punjab from May 7 to May 11. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, temperatures in upper Punjab are expected to range between 39°C and 43°C, with a noticeable rise in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Sargodha, Mianwali, Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Khushab, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal and Kasur. In southern Punjab, the heatwave is expected to be more intense, with temperatures possibly climbing between 43°C and 47°C. Areas likely to be most affected include Dera Ghazi Khan, Layyah, Bhakkar, Rajanpur, Kot Addo, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Rahim Yar Khan and Khanewal. Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has instructed all commissioners and deputy commissioners to stay vigilant and ensure necessary preparations. The PDMA director general warned that temperatures are likely to remain above normal even at night, with the possibility of dusty winds and storms. Authorities have advised the public—particularly children, women and the elderly—to take precautionary steps, including avoiding unnecessary exposure to the sun and staying well hydrated. Farmers have also been directed to adopt protective measures for crops and livestock. Meanwhile, Rescue 1122 has been put on alert to respond promptly to cases of heatstroke and dehydration. Relief camps are being established in urban areas to provide clean drinking water, oral rehydration salts (ORS) and basic medical care. Mobile health teams will also remain active to handle emergencies. The PDMA further cautioned that rising temperatures could accelerate snowmelt in northern regions, urging relevant authorities to remain on high alert. Karachi heat eases slightly after season’s peak of 44°C