Karachi
Karachi is bracing for a scorching day, with the “feels-like” temperature expected to soar between 43°C and 49°C today (Friday), despite the actual temperature hovering around 37°C to 39°C, according to weather experts.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that much of Sindh will remain under the grip of intense heat and dry conditions. Karachi and other coastal areas are likely to face ongoing disruption in sea breezes for the next few days, making the heat feel even more unbearable.
Weather analysts believe this disruption is due to a combination of wind patterns over Gujarat in India and a western weather system, both of which are intensifying the heat in Karachi.
Relief may be on the way, however. The PMD has predicted that a pre-monsoon weather system could start affecting the eastern regions of Sindh — such as Tharparkar and Umarkot — from Saturday evening. Rain, gusty winds, and thunderstorms are expected in these areas tomorrow.
By Sunday, areas like Ghotki, Sukkur, Jacobabad, and nearby regions could also see rain and strong winds as part of this developing pre-monsoon system.
Experts also said that wind activity over Gujarat may further support monsoon development in Sindh in the coming days.
Elsewhere in Pakistan, the heatwave continued to scorch Lahore on Thursday, where the temperature hit 44°C, and the “feels-like” temperature reached 47°C. Meteorologists link this extreme weather to a prolonged dry spell between May and June.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the heatwave remained severe across most districts. Peshawar recorded a temperature of 40°C, which is expected to rise to 44°C. The city’s humidity level was recorded at 52%. According to PMD, temperatures across KP are now 6°C to 7°C above normal seasonal averages.
Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu also recorded highs of 47°C.
In Cholistan Desert, temperatures have nearly touched 48°C, and the sweltering heat is expected to continue in southern Punjab for the next two days.
Local reports from the region say that water sources in the desert have dried up, resulting in severe problems for livestock. Several cases of animal deaths and forced migration of people have been reported due to dried wells and extreme temperatures.
