Islamabad, May 22, 2025: Starting today, Multan and Dera Ghazi Khan divisions will endure a severe heatwave, with cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sargodha also bracing for a sharp rise in temperatures.
This extreme weather forecast has prompted Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to issue a comprehensive alert, urging both authorities and the public to take proactive measures to combat the soaring heat.
In her official statement, Maryam Nawaz emphasized the critical need for vulnerable groups—especially children, senior citizens, and patients—to minimize outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
She highlighted the importance of protecting livestock by advising farmers in Multan, Bahawalpur, and surrounding regions to provide sufficient shade and water to their animals, ensuring their survival through these harsh conditions.
The Chief Minister also recommended keeping cool drinking water accessible on rooftops to help birds cope with the sweltering climate. This small but vital step reflects a broader effort to safeguard both humans and wildlife amid the escalating heatwave.
To mitigate heat-related risks, all government and private institutions have been ordered to halt any outdoor events until the situation improves. Schools are instructed to maintain fan usage in classrooms and implement a relaxed dress code policy to help students stay comfortable.
Additionally, first aid kits must be readily available at educational and other public facilities to address any sudden health emergencies.
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Markets, known for their high foot traffic, will be equipped with shaded zones, water coolers, and first aid stations providing ORS (oral rehydration solution) to prevent dehydration and heatstroke among visitors.
Moreover, Rescue 1122 and health departments are on heightened alert, ready to respond swiftly to emergencies arising from the heatwave.
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Transport hubs including bus and wagon stands have also been mandated to provide shaded waiting areas, cool drinking water, and mist fans for passenger relief, ensuring safety and comfort amid rising temperatures.
Experts warn that such intense heatwaves could become more frequent due to climate change, emphasizing the need for long-term adaptation strategies alongside immediate protective actions.
Stay alert and prepared! If you live in the affected regions, prioritize hydration, limit exposure to direct sunlight, and check on vulnerable family members regularly. Share this information to help others stay safe during this challenging heatwave.
