Islamabad, May 21, 2025: Peshawar is on high alert as a dangerous heatwave grips the region, with temperatures forecasted to spike between a blistering 47°C and 55°C. The General Directorate of Civil Defence has issued an urgent advisory, urging citizens to take safety precautions as Pakistan battles one of its harshest summer spells.
This extreme heatwave is not limited to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but is expected to impact vast stretches of the country.
Extreme Heatwave Triggers Civil Defence Warnings
In response to the intense heat forecast, authorities have rolled out safety instructions to minimize the risk of heat-related incidents. Key precautions include:
- Avoid leaving flammable items like gas canisters, carbonated drinks, or battery-operated devices in parked vehicles.
- Ensure some ventilation in cars by slightly opening windows.
- Refrain from overfilling fuel tanks.
- Drink water frequently and avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages.
- Keep gas cylinders shaded and away from direct sunlight.
- Do not overload power meters or use high-power appliances during peak hours.
- Stay indoors between 10 AM and 3 PM unless necessary.
These measures aim to reduce the chances of heat strokes, fire hazards, and electrical overloads during the hottest part of the day.
Read More: Sindh Braces for Week-Long Extreme Heatwave
Nationwide Heatwave Grips Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has reported that a severe heatwave is set to dominate the country for the next 72 hours. Southern parts of the country—including Sindh, Southern Punjab, and Balochistan—will see temperatures rise 4–6°C above seasonal averages.
Meanwhile, the northern and central regions such as Islamabad, Punjab, KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir may endure a 5–7°C spike.
Read More: Karachi Heatwave Alert: Southern Balochistan Also Boils
City-wise Outlook and Weather Impact
- Islamabad: Sweltering, dry conditions are forecast for both Wednesday and Thursday.
- Punjab: Expect scorching heat with a chance of dust storms in central and southern zones.
- Sindh: Temperatures remain very high, with coastal regions bracing for strong dusty winds by afternoon.
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Central and southern KP will face daytime heat nearing dangerous thresholds.
- Balochistan: Extreme temperatures accompanied by gusty winds in southern districts.
- Kashmir & Gilgit-Baltistan: Hot and dry spells will continue, with some cloud cover expected in Kashmir post-noon.
Recent Heat Records Signal Alarming Trend
Several cities have already reported alarming highs:
- Sibi: 48°C
- Rahim Yar Khan, Dadu, Bhakkar, DG Khan, Jacobabad: 47°C
- Rohri, Khairpur, Larkana, Shaheed Benazirabad: 46°C
These temperatures are dangerously close to Pakistan’s all-time records, signaling an urgent need for awareness and action.
