Pakistan Tightens the Belt as Severe Heat Continues Amidst Respite. Pakistanis suffer from the fourth, long-sustained heat wave that has been affecting the country since early May. The PMD warned about dry heat of 40°C (104°F) or more over fluctuating parts of the country, with even day-to-day temperatures reaching 3-5°C (5-9°F) above normal. While Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province is experiencing marginally less extreme temperatures, however, it is no different than the overall intensity of the heatwave which has put at stake resources and as well as health concerns for the country in whole.
Impact of the Heatwave:
The heatwave brings unhealthy levels of energy use as many people started to increase their home temperatures by using their air conditioners. Besides, the fact also results in a power disruption in some regions. Water consumption has increased too over and above the existing shortages of this most important resource. The most poorest people, of course, children, elderly individuals, and those who have illnesses, the risk of heatstrokes and dehydration are already high. It has been easier for medical centers to confirm the fact of the abundance of heat issues among people.
Hope for Relief
Not losing all of the hope the end of the tunnel is in sight. PMD predicts that the weather system that would be carrying showers, storms, and winds with high intensity would make its way into the western part of the country from 10th May onwards. This process will also be distributed across the country starting with much needed relieving temperatures and then evenly cooling off the country.
Awareness is Key
NDMA has heatwave guidelines promulgating the public into drinking enough water, not doing intensive task during sunny hours and wearing something loose and distinctive. The NDMU stated that it is necessary to ensure on those neighbors and loved ones who are at risk. However, the ongoing heatwave may be about to subside , but it is a reminder of the serious challenges Pakistan currently faces due to increasing temperature conditions. In the long run, strengthening of long-term measures, like- ease of access to clean water and more trees in urban areas will stand us in good stead as a country.
The PMD (Pakistan Meteorological Department) did forecast a heat advisory for May 2024 with temperature being above normal by 3-5°C (5-9°F) in most parts of the country, including Lahore and Karachi. The temperature was predicted to remain high until late May, with the prevailing of pre-monsoon rains bringing the much awaited coolness.
