The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the National Emergency Operation Center (NEOC) have forecasted three heatwave episodes expected to occur in May and June.
According to NDMA, severe heat is anticipated in Umarkot, Tharparkar, Tindullah Yar, Matiari, and Sanghar. Additionally, Bahawalpur and Rahim Yar Khan districts are identified as being at risk.
Temperatures are projected to soar up to 40 degrees Celsius from May 15 to 30. The first heatwave spell will persist for two to three days, followed by a second spell lasting four to five days towards the end of May. In June, temperatures may peak at 45 degrees Celsius, heralding a third heatwave spell expected in the initial ten days of the month, lasting 3 to 5 days.
The NDMA cautions that heatwaves can affect humans and other organisms, urging preemptive measures before the anticipated heatwave onslaught. The second spell is expected to linger for four to five days, while the third will predominantly impact Tharparkar, Umarkot, Sanghar, Badin, and Khairpur.
During heatwaves, land temperatures typically surpass air temperatures due to heat retention in the ground. Pakistan experienced its most severe heatwave in 2022.
As highlighted in the 2022 Amnesty International report, extreme heat poses a grave risk, particularly to vulnerable demographics such as children, the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic ailments. Heatwaves can trigger heat-related illnesses like heat strokes and cramps, exacerbating existing health conditions and even leading to fatalities.
The onset of the monsoon, following the heatwave season from March to mid-June, brings its own set of challenges, including flash flood warnings and heavy rainfall causing loss of life and property damage.
