The Met Department has issued a weather advisory warning of a possible heatwave and heatwave-like conditions in the southern districts of the country, while the upper parts of Pakistan are likely to experience intermittent rainfall from April 8 to 11.
According to the Met Office, temperatures in several areas of southern and central Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan are expected to soar 4 to 7 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. The intense heatwave conditions could pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children. Residents have been urged to stay indoors during peak daylight hours and increase their water intake to avoid dehydration and heatstroke.
Meanwhile, a western disturbance is likely to bring cloudy weather and rain to the upper parts of the country between April 8 and 11. Areas expected to receive rain include Chitral, Dir, Shangla, Swat, Mohmand, and Orakzai. Light to moderate showers are also forecast in the Potohar region, as well as in major Punjab cities including Lahore, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Hafizabad, and Sheikhupura.
In addition, dusty winds and thunderstorms are predicted in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Sindh.
PDMA issues alert
The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has also issued a separate alert highlighting both the expected temperature rise and potential rainfall in various districts.
A PDMA spokesperson stated that dusty winds and thundershowers are likely in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, and Chakwal, while cities like Mandi Bahauddin, Jhelum, Gujrat, Toba Tek Singh, Jhang, and Khushab are expected to receive rain.
Lahore, Kasur, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Faisalabad, Sargodha, and Mianwali could also experience rain and strong winds during this period.
Precautionary measures advised
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has directed departments including WASA, Punjab Police, Civil Defense, and the Information Department to remain on high alert. All concerned authorities have been advised to ensure timely drainage in low-lying areas and prepare for possible urban flooding in the event of heavy rain.
