KARACHI: Sindh, including the provincial capital Karachi, remained in the grip of a severe heatwave on Sunday as temperatures soared to alarming levels, with the Met Office warning that Monday is likely to be the hottest day of the year so far.
According to official data, the city recorded a maximum temperature of 41°C on Sunday, however, mercury levels in the northern parts of Karachi and its suburbs touched 42-43°C.
Due to varying humidity levels, the ‘felt’ or ‘real-feel’ temperature across different areas of the metropolis ranged between 46°C and 51°C, making conditions extremely oppressive for residents.
Meteorologists said the sea breeze, which normally provides relief to the coastal city, remained very weak throughout the day. The situation is expected to persist for the next 18 to 22 hours, intensifying heat-related risks.
Monday likely to be hottest day this year
The forecast for Monday indicates no immediate respite. Maximum temperatures in most parts of Karachi are likely to reach 41-42°C, while northern areas and the outskirts may again experience highs of 42-43°C.
Even the southern coastal localities, usually cooler due to proximity to the sea, are expected to record 37-38°C. With humidity factored in, the felt temperature may once again surge to 45-50+°C in different parts of the city.
Advisory for citizens
Health experts and authorities have urged citizens to take precautionary measures amid the extreme weather. Residents have been advised to drink plenty of water, keep themselves hydrated, and avoid unnecessary outdoor activity between 11am and 4pm when the heat is at its peak.
The public has also been specially requested to place water and food for birds and other animals in shaded areas. “These speechless animals are also affected by the heat like us,” the advisory noted.
The ongoing heatwave spell is part of a broader weather system affecting Sindh, with several districts in the province also reporting above-normal temperatures.
