Pakistan and the rest of the Northern Hemisphere are experiencing the longest day of the year today, June 21. Known as the Summer Solstice, this astronomical event marks the official start of summer and brings with it extended daylight hours, warmer temperatures, and a powerful reminder of the Earth’s axial tilt.
On this day, the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, giving Pakistan over 14 hours of daylight, especially in cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar. From early sunrise to late sunset, people across the country will enjoy extra hours of sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor activities, solar power generation, and agricultural benefits.
Why Is June 21 Called the Longest Day?
The Summer Solstice occurs when the Earth’s northern axis is tilted closest to the sun. This results in the longest period of daylight and the shortest night of the year. The term “solstice” comes from Latin, meaning “sun stands still,” because the sun appears to pause at its highest point before reversing direction.
How Pakistanis Are Celebrating the Longest Day
From early morning hikes in Murree to evening tea at seaside points in Karachi, citizens are embracing this bright day. Social media is buzzing with hashtags like #LongestDay2025, #SummerSolstice, and #SunshinePakistan, with users sharing pictures of sunrise, garden walks, and golden-hour skies.
Heat Advisory in Effect
Authorities are advising citizens to stay hydrated and limit outdoor exposure during peak noon hours, especially in areas experiencing high temperatures. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued heatwave alerts for parts of Sindh and South Punjab.
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Fun Fact: The Longest Day Doesn’t Mean the Latest Sunset
While June 21 brings the most daylight, the latest sunset and earliest sunrise don’t always fall on this exact day due to Earth’s elliptical orbit. Still, it’s the best time to enjoy maximum daylight in a 24-hour period.
Looking Ahead: When Is the Shortest Day of the Year?
Pakistan will witness the shortest day of the year on December 21, 2025, during the Winter Solstice, when daylight hours are significantly reduced.
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