Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling port city, finds itself in the throes of an intense heatwave, exacerbated by humidity levels pushing the “feels like” temperature to a blistering 51°C around midday on Monday. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued warnings that this partial heatwave will persist for the next three days, affecting daily life and prompting health advisories across the region.
Sardar Sarfraz, PMD’s chief meteorologist, highlighted that Karachi is expected to endure temperatures exceeding 40°C throughout the current day and continuing into the near future. The prevailing weather pattern is marked by exceptionally hot and humid conditions, with the absence of daytime sea breezes intensifying the heat impact on residents.
Weather Forecast and Relief Predictions
Over the next three days, Karachiites can anticipate temperatures hovering between 38°C and 40°C, with hot winds originating from Balochistan maintaining the heat during daylight hours. However, there is a potential respite in the evenings as sea breezes may resume, offering a slight cooldown. By Wednesday, temperatures are anticipated to marginally decrease, potentially reaching 39°C or even dropping to 37°C, offering some relief from the scorching conditions.
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Looking ahead, the PMD has also projected above-normal rainfall for southern Sindh, including Karachi, during the forthcoming monsoon season. Early monsoon showers are predicted to commence in eastern Sindh around July 2 or 3, with Karachi likely to receive its first monsoonal downpours in the initial week of July. This forecast brings a glimmer of hope amidst the current heatwave, promising relief from the searing temperatures and replenishment of water resources in the region.
Regional Impact and Precautionary Measures
The broader region of Sindh faces similar weather challenges, with cities like Ghotki, Jacobabad, Dadu, Larkana, and Shikarpur bracing for temperatures soaring between 46°C and 48°C. Meanwhile, Hyderabad, Umarkot, Tharparkar, and Badin are expected to experience slightly lower yet still scorching temperatures ranging from 44°C to 46°C. Relief may come in the form of light rain accompanied by thundershowers, particularly anticipated in Tharparkar and Umarkot during the evening hours or overnight.
As authorities monitor the situation closely, they advise residents across Karachi and Sindh to take necessary precautions against the extreme heat, emphasizing increased fluid intake to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. The combination of high temperatures and humidity poses significant health risks, warranting public awareness campaigns and community support to ensure the well-being of all residents during this challenging weather period.