NDMA warns of severe heatwave conditions in Sindh, other parts of country

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a countrywide alert warning that several parts of the country could face an intense heatwave in the coming days, with conditions expected to persist until May 5.

In an advisory released through its National Emergencies Operation Centre, the authority also forecast a spell of rain, dust storms and thunderstorms in different regions between April 24 and April 29. Officials urged both local administrations and the public to stay prepared and take precautionary measures.

According to the advisory, Sindh, southern Punjab and parts of Balochistan are likely to experience severe heatwave conditions. Cities including Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan and Turbat are expected to remain under extreme heat.

Temperatures are also expected to rise sharply in central Punjab and some areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

At the same time, a weather system is likely to bring dust storms, strong winds and rainfall to upper and central Punjab on April 24, 25 and 29. Areas such as Murree, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Sargodha, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Lahore, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan may receive rain during this period.

In Balochistan, northern districts including Quetta, Ziarat, Kalat and Khuzdar are expected to see rain along with gusty winds between April 24–25 and April 27–29. Coastal areas such as Gwadar, however, are likely to remain hot and dry, with temperatures gradually increasing.

Sindh is forecast to stay mostly hot and dry, although cities like Hyderabad, Badin and Mithi may experience light rain and winds on April 24.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is also expected to receive intermittent rain and strong winds in districts including Chitral, Dir, Swat, Malakand, Kohistan, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Peshawar, Mardan, Swabi, Charsadda, Nowshera, Kohat and Kurram during the same dates.

Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are likely to experience rain with thunderstorms between April 24 and 29.

The NDMA warned that the heatwave could lead to an increased risk of heatstroke, dehydration and other health problems. Citizens have been advised to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated and take necessary precautions.