‘Feels-like’ temperature in city may reach up to 50°C as heatwave grips most parts of province
Officials noted that temperatures in recent days have already been recorded 2°C to 4°C above normal levels, signaling an early onset of intense summer conditions. PHOTO: EXPRESS
KARACHI:
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave alert for Karachi and several districts across Sindh on Saturday, warning that temperatures in the city could exceed 41°C on Monday and reach 40°C on Sunday. Hot, very hot and dry weather is expected to prevail in most parts of the province.
Karachi may also experience its hottest day on Saturday, with the “feels-like” temperature expected to reach up to 50°C. While the temperature in the city may reach up to 38°C on Saturday, and up to 40°C in suburban areas, the “feels-like” temperature during the afternoon is expected to range between 49°C and 50°C.
According to the three-day forecast, the PMD noted that humidity levels from Saturday to Monday will remain high. Humidity levels on Saturday are expected to peak at around 45% while on Sunday the peak may be experienced in the morning at 70%. Monday, meanwhile, is expected to see humidity persist between the 40-50% level in the day and fall to 20-30% in the evening.
Also Read: Karachi to hit 38°C over next 3 days: Met Office
In terms of heat, maximum temperatures over the three days will range between 36-41°C. Some improvement in weather conditions is, however, expected in the evening as sea breezes resume but humidity may persist again at night due to low wind speed.
According to the PMD, severe heat is likely to persist in the central and upper parts of Sindh from Saturday through Sunday.
Under its influence, the districts of Jamshoro, Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Kashmore, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, Jacobabad, Larkana and Sukkur will remain in the grip of intense heat, with maximum temperatures expected to remain 3 to 5°C above normal.
Read More: Country-wide rains, hailstorms expected from today
In addition to the extreme heat, dust storms and strong winds are forecast over the weekend in Jacobabad, Larkana, Kashmore, Shikarpur, Sukkur and several other districts. The Met Office cautioned that dust-laden and gusty winds may damage weak structures, constructions and solar panels.
The Met Office has urged the general public, particularly children, women and elderly citizens, to take precautionary measures in view of the severe heat. Residents are advised to avoid going out in direct sunlight during the daytime and to increase their water intake.
Beyond urban residents, farmers have also been advised to manage their crop activities in view of the weather conditions and to take care of their livestock as well.
