A severe heatwave continues to grip much of Pakistan, with Islamabad bracing for another scorching day as temperatures are expected to peak at 42°C over the weekend. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast hot and dry conditions for the federal capital, with humidity levels at 48%. Early morning temperatures began at 27°C and had already climbed to 30°C by midday.
The heatwave is intensifying nationwide, particularly impacting Sindh, South Punjab, and Balochistan, where temperatures are expected to remain 4 to 6°C above seasonal norms. In Upper Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the rise could be as much as 7°C above normal.
Among the hottest areas, Turbat may record a blistering 50°C today. Other cities such as Nokundi, Dadu, Sukkur, and Dera Ghazi Khan could see highs of up to 49°C. Temperatures may reach 47°C in Dera Ismail Khan, Nawabshah, Multan, Bahawalpur, and Sibi.
Karachi is forecast to reach 38°C, while Quetta and Gwadar are likely to hit 40°C. Rawalpindi may see temperatures climb to 41°C. Lahore and Hyderabad are expected to touch 43°C, Peshawar and Bannu up to 45°C, and Faisalabad, Sargodha, and Sahiwal around 46°C.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave warning for most regions, cautioning that extreme temperatures may persist until May 20. Citizens are urged to stay indoors during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and avoid direct sun exposure to mitigate heat-related health risks.