On Sunday, certain districts in Sindh and southern Punjab experienced record-breaking temperatures, reaching as high as 50 degrees Celsius (122 Fahrenheit). The intense heatwave affected districts like Dadu, Qambar Shahdadkot, and Jacobabad in Sindh, as well as Rojhan and Rajanpur in southern Punjab, leaving residents to endure sweltering conditions.
Not just limited to these areas, other districts also faced extreme heat. In Sindh, Nawabshah, Sukkur, Shikarpur, Ghotki, and Kashmore saw temperatures rise to 49 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, in Punjab, Rahim Yar Khan experienced similar scorching temperatures. Major cities like Faisalabad and Lahore weren’t spared either, with temperatures climbing to 45 and 44 degrees Celsius, respectively.
The overall weather conditions in Sindh are exceptionally hot, particularly in the inland areas. Coastal regions of the province are also suffering, with high temperatures accompanied by humidity, making it uncomfortable for residents.
The Ministry of Climate Change has issued warnings about the severe heatwave affecting around 26 districts across the country. The ministry predicts that the extreme temperatures will continue until at least May 30, urging people to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Local authorities and health officials are advising people to stay indoors as much as possible, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. This heatwave is one of the most severe the region has seen, and there are concerns about its impact on public health, agriculture, and daily life.
In response to the heatwave, the government is also implementing measures to help residents cope with the extreme temperatures. Cooling centers are being set up, and there are increased efforts to provide water and medical aid to those affected.
The prolonged heatwave is a stark reminder of the growing impact of climate change on weather patterns. Scientists and environmentalists are calling for more robust climate action to mitigate such extreme weather events in the future. The current situation underscores the urgent need for both immediate relief measures and long-term strategies to adapt to and combat climate change.
