Pakistan is preparing for a severe heatwave as the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning for extremely high temperatures across several regions of the country between June 7 and June 12.
According to the latest weather advisory, a strong high-pressure system is expected to develop in the upper atmosphere and remain active until June 11. The weather pattern is likely to trigger unusually hot conditions in many cities, raising concerns about public health, water availability, and energy demand.
The PMD has forecast that several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, Mardan, Bannu, Karak, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan, will experience temperatures significantly above seasonal averages. Daytime temperatures in these areas are expected to remain between 41°C and 46°C from June 8 to June 11, which is approximately 4°C to 6°C higher than normal.
Northern regions are also expected to feel the impact of the heatwave. Areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, and Gilgit-Baltistan could witness temperatures ranging from 37°C to 40°C between June 8 and June 10. While these regions are generally known for relatively cooler weather, the upcoming rise in temperature highlights the widespread reach of the current weather system.
The federal capital Islamabad and neighboring Rawalpindi are also likely to experience unusually hot conditions. Other affected areas include Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Gujrat, Mirpur, Bhimber, Kotli, Bagh, and Muzaffarabad. In these locations, temperatures are forecast to remain 5°C to 7°C above normal, with maximum temperatures expected to range between 41°C and 44°C from June 8 to June 10.
Weather experts have cautioned that the heatwave may intensify in parts of southern and central Pakistan, with some regions potentially recording temperatures close to 50°C or even 51°C. Such extreme weather conditions can increase the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses, particularly among children, senior citizens, and outdoor workers.
Authorities have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take precautionary measures to minimize exposure to direct sunlight. Farmers and livestock owners have also been urged to make necessary arrangements to protect crops and animals from extreme heat.
As climate-related weather extremes become more frequent, experts emphasize the importance of preparedness and public awareness. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official weather forecasts and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
With temperatures expected to remain dangerously high throughout the coming week, Pakistan faces one of its most intense heatwave episodes of the summer season.
