Karachi, Sindh, remained under an intense heatwave on Monday, with temperatures reaching 41°C and humidity dropping to 8%. The Meteorological Department said this was the case.
The Met Office said hot and dry north-westerly winds were blowing at 11 kilometres per hour. The day’s temperature was expected to rise to 42°C.
Medical experts advised citizens to limit outdoor activity and avoid direct sunlight between 11 am and 3 pm. They also said to stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related stress.
Pulmonary disease specialist Dr Javed Khan told local news channel Geo News that respiratory illness cases had increased by 20% in city hospitals. This rise was due to the severe heat.
Khan said asthma patients were visiting public and private hospitals in large numbers. Moreover, the risk of pneumonia also rises in such weather.
Read: Karachi Heatwave Pushes Feel-Like Temperature to 46°C
He said that hot, humid conditions can make the effective oxygen level in the air feel lower.
Doctors advised residents to avoid street food, drink only boiled water and avoid unhygienic drinks to prevent stomach-related illnesses.
Citizens were also advised to wear loose, light-coloured clothing and cover their heads when stepping outdoors.
The Met Office said Karachi’s overnight minimum temperature was recorded at 29°C, while north-westerly winds continued at around 8 kilometres per hour.
