Severe Heatwave Set to Sweep Across Pakistan – Citizens Urged to Prepare and Stay Safe

As temperatures begin to rise across the country, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a critical heatwave alert, predicting dangerously high temperatures from April 13 to 18, 2025. With the summer sun already intensifying, the PMD warns that this heatwave will mainly affect Sindh, Balochistan, and southern Punjab, with the mercury soaring well above seasonal norms.

What to Expect: Soaring Temperatures and Dry Conditions

Starting April 13, several regions of Pakistan will begin experiencing a sharp rise in temperature due to a strong atmospheric pressure system. By April 14, much of the country is expected to be in the grip of a full-fledged heatwave. According to PMD experts, daytime temperatures may climb 6 to 8 degrees Celsius higher than usual, creating harsh and potentially dangerous conditions for the general public.

Along with the heat, weather disturbances such as dust storms and gusty winds are also expected, which could damage trees, electric poles, and even solar installations. The PMD strongly advises all citizens, particularly the elderly, children, and women, to avoid unnecessary exposure to sunlight, stay indoors during peak hours, and keep hydrated at all times.

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Precautionary Measures Taken by the Government

In anticipation of the extreme weather, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) in Punjab has taken immediate steps to ensure the safety of people, especially in drought-prone areas like Cholistan.

On the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, a high-level meeting was held in Bahawalpur, chaired by PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia and Commissioner Musarrat Jabeen, to discuss emergency responses and preventive actions.

Officials from multiple departments, including health, irrigation, agriculture, education, and local government, were in attendance. The Managing Director of the Cholistan Development Authority provided a detailed briefing on the current water availability and potential drought threats in the region.

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Emergency Supplies and Drought-Relief Efforts

To combat the looming crisis, the PDMA has deployed:

• 2,000 jerry cans
• 10 water bowsers, including
  • 4 bowsers with 12,500-litre capacity
  • 6 bowsers with 5,000-litre capacity

These will be used to supply water to affected communities in Cholistan. Additionally, umbrellas are being distributed to protect vulnerable groups from direct exposure to the scorching sun.

DG Irfan Kathia emphasized the importance of staying alert and working in coordination. He urged all deputy commissioners to remain on high alert and ready for any emergency.

He also stressed that public cooperation was essential, especially in conserving water and following safety instructions during the heatwave. “We have done our part. Now it’s time for the public to play theirs,” said Kathia during his media briefing.

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Public Awareness Campaigns in Full Swing

To ensure that citizens are well-informed, awareness pamphlets are being distributed and public service announcements are underway to educate people about the health risks of heatwaves and the importance of water conservation.

People are advised to:

• Avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11 am to 4 pm
• Wear light and breathable clothing
• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water and avoid caffeinated drinks
• Limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous physical exertion
• Check on elderly neighbors and children to ensure they are safe
• Report any emergencies to local authorities without delay

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Final Thoughts: Stay Safe, Stay Aware

The Pakistan heatwave 2025 is a serious natural event that demands our attention and action. While government agencies are doing their part, it’s up to all of us to take individual responsibility to stay protected and support those around us, especially the vulnerable.

Let’s make sure we get through this safely—together.