The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has sounded the alarm over an impending heat wave, along with rain and storm alerts, set to impact the province this week.
According to the PDMA spokesperson, Punjab is likely to experience a surge in daytime temperatures ranging from 3 to 5 degrees Celsius during May 8 to 10. This period also forecasts the onset of dusty winds and thundershowers across most districts of Punjab, with the potential for stormy rain specifically in South Punjab on May 10-11.
District administrations have been duly notified by the PDMA regarding this weather phenomenon to take necessary precautions.
Director-General of PDMA Punjab, Irfan Ali Kathia, has expressed concerns over possible damage to standing crops due to the anticipated storm. He has urged the public to exercise caution, especially those engaged in outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, advising them to take measures to avoid exposure to extreme heat.
In a meteorological review of April 2024, the Meteorological Department reported a total rainfall of 59.3 mm, making it one of the wettest Aprils in recent years. Notably, Malam Jabba recorded the highest rainfall of 520 mm in the country, while Dir and Malam Jabba experienced the highest single-day rainfall of 91 mm. Despite the increased rainfall, the average temperature in April remained 0.87 degrees below normal, indicating a mixed weather pattern.