ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Friday issued a heatwave alert, forecasting significantly higher-than-usual temperatures across the country from April 13 through next week.
Citizens have been advised to take precautionary measures as the heat intensifies, particularly in the southern regions.
According to the alert, a high-pressure system is expected to dominate the upper atmosphere starting April 13, resulting in heatwave conditions in most parts of the country.
These conditions are expected to worsen in the southern half—comprising Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan—beginning April 14.
Daytime temperatures in these regions are predicted to remain 6°C to 8°C above the seasonal average between April 14 and 18. In the upper half of the country—including central and northern Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan—temperatures are expected to stay 4°C to 6°C above normal during the same period.
The PMD further stated that nighttime temperatures will also remain unusually high, and the extreme heat could lead to duststorms and windstorms in some areas.
The general public, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly, are strongly advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during the day and to stay well-hydrated.
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Farmers, especially those involved in wheat harvesting, have been urged to adjust their agricultural schedules in accordance with the forecast and to ensure the wellbeing of their livestock.
Rising temperatures in northern areas are also likely to accelerate the melting of snow from April 14 to 18.
Government departments have been asked to stay vigilant and take appropriate actions to prevent any potential emergencies arising from the extreme weather.
Significant Rainfall Deficit Reported
In addition to the heatwave warning, the PMD released its quarterly drought bulletin, highlighting a severe decline in rainfall during the first quarter of 2025.
Rainfall across the country dropped by 41% compared to average levels, with Punjab and Sindh facing the most extreme shortfalls—recording 92% and 96% below normal precipitation, respectively.
January witnessed the sharpest deficit, while dry conditions continued through February, with rainfall departures ranging from -8% to -97% across most of the country, excluding Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, where rainfall remained relatively normal.
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The March 2025 Drought Monitor has identified several regions under moderate drought, including Turbat, Jiwani, Ormara, Dadu, Mithi, Badin, Thatta, Shaheed Benazirabad, and Karachi. Mild drought has also been observed in various parts of Sindh, Balochistan, and southern Punjab.
The significant rainfall shortfall has caused a soil moisture deficit in areas such as the Potohar plateau, Sialkot, parts of Kashmir, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and southwestern Balochistan.
These conditions are leading to crop stress, growing concerns over water scarcity, and an overall increase in drought risk.
Adding to the concern, the PMD noted alarmingly low water levels in the Tarbela and Mangla dams, with river flows across the country also reported at critically low levels.
