Pakistan Heatwave: Temperatures Soar to 48°C, PMD Issues Warning

On May 16, 2025, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that a severe heatwave continues to affect most of Pakistan, driven by a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere.

Temperatures are expected to remain 4–7°C above normal through May 20, with extreme conditions forecast for northern, central, and southern regions.

In northern and central areas of Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, daytime highs are projected to be 5–7°C above seasonal averages until May 19. Southern regions, including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan, will see temperatures 4–6°C above normal through May 20.

Hot & dry weather to prevail in most parts of the country. Plains to remain very hot during the day. Light rain/thunderstorm likely at isolated spots in Kashmir & nearby hills this afternoon.
#WeatherAlert #pmd

— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) May 16, 2025

Major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Multan, and Peshawar are expected to record highs between 40°C and 48°C this weekend. Interior districts like Dadu and Mohenjo-Daro may exceed 50°C, while coastal Karachi remains hot and humid.

Over the past 24 hours, Turbat and Dadu recorded the highest temperatures at 48°C, followed by Dera Ghazi Khan at 47°C. The PMD noted hot and dry conditions nationwide, particularly in the plains.

Hot & dry weather expected across most areas.
Daytime to be very hot in the plains! 🌞
💧 Stay hydrated
🏠 Stay indoors
🧢 Avoid outdoor activities#WeatherAlert #HeatWave #PakistanWeather

— Pak Met Department محکمہ موسمیات (@pmdgov) May 15, 2025

Authorities urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities from 11 AM to 4 PM, and take precautions, especially for children and the elderly. The PMD advises wearing light clothing and monitoring for heatstroke symptoms. The 2023 heatwave, which claimed over 1,000 lives in Karachi alone, underscores the need for vigilance.

The heatwave is expected to persist for three to four more days without immediate relief. The PMD continues to monitor conditions and provide updates.