The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issued a heatwave advisory for May 20–24, following a similar alert on May 15.
The advisory indicates that high pressure in the upper atmosphere will cause daytime temperatures to rise between 4 and 7 degrees Celsius above normal. Specifically, Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan are expected to experience temperature increases of 4 to 6 degrees Celsius. At the same time, central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan may see rises of 5 to 7 degrees Celsius.
On May 19, Dadu and Jacobabad recorded the highest temperatures in Pakistan at 48°C, while Rawalpindi and Islamabad reached 39°C. Temperatures are expected to rise to 41–42°C by May 24. A shallow westerly wave may bring isolated dust storms and gusty winds to the plains.
Hot & dry weather across most of Pakistan today.
🌧️ Isolated rain/thunderstorms possible in GB, Upper KP, Kashmir, Upper Punjab & Islamabad.
⚠️ Hailstorm/heavy showers at a few spots.#WeatherUpdate #PakistanWeather #HeatWave #RainAlert
— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) May 19, 2025The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) noted isolated rainfall in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pothohar, and Gilgit-Baltistan over the past 24 hours.
Read: Pakistan Heatwave: PMD Warns of 48°C Temps, Urges Safety Measures
The PMD advised citizens to avoid direct sunlight from 11 AM to 4 PM, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing to reduce the risk of heatstroke. Farmers were encouraged to modify their care for crops and livestock, and authorities were notified to be prepared for potential emergencies, including rapid snowmelt in northern glaciers.
A heatwave is currently affecting the area, following an advisory issued on May 15. This situation poses significant risks to vulnerable groups, such as children and the elderly. The heatwave in Karachi in 2023 resulted in over 1,000 deaths. Additionally, the increase in snowmelt may put a strain on water resources. Emergency services are on high alert, and hospitals are preparing for an influx of heat-related cases.
