PMD warns of severe heatwave across Pakistan from June 7–12

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave alert for most parts of the country, warning

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave alert for most parts of the country, warning that temperatures will rise significantly between June 7 and June 12 due to a strong high-pressure system developing in the upper atmosphere.

According to the advisory, the weather system is expected to intensify from June 8 and continue affecting large parts of the country until June 11, leading to extreme hot and dry conditions.

The Met Office said temperatures in several areas of Sindh and Balochistan may reach between 48°C and 51°C during this period. It described the conditions as severe and potentially dangerous, especially for vulnerable groups.

In Punjab, major cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, and others are expected to experience temperatures ranging from 44°C to 48°C. The PMD said these readings are several degrees above normal levels.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, temperatures are also expected to remain well above average. Cities such as Peshawar, Mardan, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan may record highs between 41°C and 46°C.

For northern areas including Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Gilgit-Baltistan, temperatures are likely to remain between 37°C and 40°C, which is still higher than seasonal averages.

Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and surrounding areas are forecast to experience temperatures between 41°C and 44°C from June 8 to June 10. The Met Office said these regions will also feel increased heat stress during the daytime.

In Karachi, hot and humid conditions are expected to continue, with temperatures likely to range between 40°C and 43°C throughout the forecast period.

The PMD also warned that night-time temperatures will remain high, reducing relief during evenings and increasing overall heat discomfort across the country.

The advisory added that dust storms may develop in some parts of southern Punjab and Sindh due to intense surface heating.

The department urged the public to take precautionary measures, especially children, women, and elderly people, and advised them to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours from 10am to 4pm.

Farmers were also advised to adjust agricultural activities according to weather conditions and protect livestock from heat-related stress.