A blistering heatwave continues to scorch Lahore and many other parts of Pakistan, with “felt” temperatures in the city reaching a sweltering 50°C and heat intensity peaking at 60°C, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The PMD reported that Lahore’s actual temperature climbed to 44°C, while the perceived heat, intensified by humidity and dry conditions, made it feel much hotter. Officials attributed the extreme heat to a persistent dry spell stretching from May into June.
“The ongoing heatwave is likely to persist for another 24 hours, with temperatures potentially rising by another 7°C,” warned the PMD.
The Punjab Health Department confirmed 67 cases of heatstroke during the first ten days of June, mostly attributed to prolonged exposure to scorching temperatures. Hospitals across the province have established emergency counters to treat heat-related illnesses, especially affecting labourers, the elderly, and children.
In Punjab’s Cholistan Desert, temperatures neared 48°C. Water shortages were reported as reserves dried up, forcing local residents to migrate and causing distress to livestock. In cities like Sargodha, Gujranwala, and Hafizabad, temperatures exceeded 47°C. Lahore itself recorded 46.2°C on Wednesday.
“This is a life-threatening situation,” said PDMA DG Irfan Ali Kathia. “Vulnerable groups must be protected at all costs.”
In Sindh, Jacobabad and Bhakkar recorded the country’s highest temperatures at 49°C. Mohenjo-Daro and Larkana followed closely at 48°C and 47°C respectively. Karachi experienced 40°C paired with 70% humidity, making conditions even more unbearable for coastal residents.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa also faced intense heat, with Peshawar touching 40°C and expected to rise further. Dera Ismail Khan and Bannu reported peaks of 47°C. The region’s temperatures were noted to be 6-7°C above seasonal norms.
Relief may be on the horizon, with the Met Office forecasting a shallow westerly weather system entering northern areas by June 14. This could bring light rain and slight drops in temperature, particularly in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Potohar, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has directed local authorities to stay on high alert. Cool drinking water stations have been set up in public areas, and awareness campaigns are advising citizens to avoid going outdoors between 11am and 4pm, stay hydrated, and wear light cotton clothing.
“The heat is unbearable. Even standing in the shade feels like being in an oven,” said Muhammad Asif, a rickshaw driver in Lahore.
With the extreme weather expected to last at least another 48 to 72 hours, residents are urged to take precautions, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and seek medical help if symptoms of heatstroke appear. The PDMA emergency helpline 1129 remains active for public assistance.