Key points
- Northern Pakistan (Central and Upper Punjab, Islamabad, KP, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan) to face 4–6°C above normal temperatures from April 27
- NDMA urges authorities to set up cooling centres, raise public awareness, and stock emergency supplies
- Rain system expected to bring relief in upper regions by May 1
ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high-alert advisory as a severe heatwave is expected to sweep across most parts of Pakistan from Saturday to Wednesday (April 30).
According to the NDMA, a strong high-pressure system is likely to affect the country’s upper atmosphere starting Friday, gripping southern regions—including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan—with temperatures expected to soar 5 to 7°C above normal.
The central and northern areas—including Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and upper Punjab—are forecast to experience temperatures 4 to 6°C above average from April 27.
The advisory states that relief may arrive by May 1, when a rain-bearing system is expected to enter the upper parts of the country, bringing thunderstorms and isolated heavy showers to regions such as Kashmir, Islamabad, Pothohar, and parts of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Immediate preventive measures
In preparation, the NDMA has directed all Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), health departments, and local administrations to undertake immediate preventive measures. They have been instructed to launch public awareness campaigns, establish heatstroke treatment centres, and ensure the availability of emergency supplies like water, electrolyte drinks, and first aid kits.
Special emphasis has been placed on protecting vulnerable populations such as schoolchildren, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
Educational institutions have been advised to consider adjusting school timings or temporarily closing during peak heat hours, while farmers have been urged to manage crop activities with caution.
The NDMA has also warned of secondary risks, including the possibility of forest fires and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the northern regions due to accelerated ice melt.
Likewise, individuals have been advised to remain indoors during peak heat hours (11 AM to 4 PM), stay hydrated, wear light-coloured clothing, and monitor local weather updates closely.
Travellers have been urged to avoid unnecessary trips during the hottest parts of the day and to ensure their vehicles are in good condition to prevent breakdowns in extreme temperatures.
Community centres, mosques, and public institutions are being encouraged to set up temporary cooling shelters, while municipal bodies have been directed to ensure uninterrupted water supply in heat-prone areas, the NDMA advisory adds.
