Karachi is currently experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures soaring and humidity levels making conditions exceptionally hot and uncomfortable for residents.
According to the Met Department, the maximum temperature is expected to reach up to 41 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, with the current temperature already at 33 degrees Celsius and a high humidity level of 73%. It says the intensity of heat was being felt at 39 degrees.
However, the weather department predicts that sea breezes will resume in Karachi from Wednesday evening and the temperature are likely to drop gradually from tomorrow.
Precautionary measures
The scorching weather has prompted health experts to issue precautionary measures, urging citizens to stay indoors if possible.
They suggest citizens to use a cap and an umbrella if they need to go out, further suggesting people to wear sunglasses to protect their eyes. They also advise citizens to keep a cold water bottle and a wet towel with them to avoid heatstroke.
Hospitals under stress
"The condition of hospitals in Karachi is critical due to the heatwave," stated medical professionals, highlighting a surge in patients suffering from heatstroke and related illnesses. On Monday alone, the Civil Hospital received 11 bodies and 150 other heat-related cases, while Jinnah Hospital admitted 25 patients.
Since Tuesday morning, 35 people affected by heat wave have been shifted to Civil Hospital. The additional medical superintendent said most of the patients were found to be lacking sodium, adding that were being provided first aid and discharged.
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More patients than usual are being brought to other small and big hospitals of the city as well.
"People with underlying health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure are particularly being affected," warned doctors, advising residents to drink plenty of water, wear light-coloured clothes, and avoid leaving the house and direct sun exposure during peak hours.
Mortuaries filling up
The situation has also impacted Karachi's mortuaries, where a notable increase in bodies has been observed. Faisal Edhi, a prominent social leader, reported that over the past two days, the city's cold storages have received more than 135 bodies, significantly higher than the usual 20 to 30 bodies.
He further said that most bodies that apart from drug addicts, in the last two days, more bodies than usual were being brought to the morgue due to the intense heat.
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"Most of the bodies are from areas heavily affected by electricity load shedding," noted Edhi.
In response to the crisis, there are calls for K-Electric to refrain from daytime load-shedding to alleviate the heat's impact on residents.
The city authorities are urging citizens to take necessary precautions, including carrying water, using umbrellas and sunglasses, and avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities during peak heat hours. With the heatwave expected to persist, continued monitoring and community support efforts are crucial to mitigate its effects on Karachi's residents.
