LAHORE: The disaster management authority in Punjab province, Pakistan, recently issued guidelines on protecting sacrificial animals from the ongoing heat wave, as temperatures in parts of the country soared past 50°C last week.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) also warned that the heat wave would persist throughout June in parts of Sindh and Punjab, with temperatures likely to stay above 48°C.
An advisory from the Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Saturday emphasized the need for water provision in cattle markets. It also directed the construction of temporary shelters in these markets to protect the animals.
The PDMA urged cattle market owners to ensure nearby health centers are available, highlighting that the heat wave is expected to continue throughout June. “By taking precautionary measures, one can ensure safety against the heat wave,” the PDMA stated, advising those buying and selling cattle to follow these measures.
On Monday, Pakistan’s Meteorological Department (Met) predicted that most parts of the country would experience hot weather, with “very hot” conditions expected in plain areas over the next 24 hours.
Extreme heat induced by climate change can lead to various health issues, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and hyperthermia. It can exacerbate chronic conditions like cardiovascular, respiratory, and cerebrovascular diseases, as well as diabetes-related conditions, and can result in acute incidents, such as strokes or renal disease hospitalizations.
