Pakistan Braces for First Intense Heatwave of the Year, Met Office Issues Warning

Pakistan is experiencing its first major heatwave of 2025, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issuing a public alert as temperatures soar well above seasonal norms.

According to the PMD, a strong high-pressure system will affect most parts of the country between May 15 and May 20, bringing extremely hot and dry weather conditions. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain 4 to 7 degrees Celsius higher than average in many regions.

The warning highlights that Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan will experience particularly intense heat during the day, while upper and central parts of the country — including Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir — will also face prolonged heat stress.

In the northern regions, including Islamabad, temperatures are projected to rise significantly, raising concerns about accelerated snowmelt in the mountainous areas. Authorities warn this could lead to increased water flow in streams, rivers, and nullahs, potentially causing flash flooding or rising river levels.

Meanwhile, weather experts predict that a new western weather system may enter the country on May 19 or 20, possibly bringing rain, windstorms, and hail to select northern regions. However, this system is likely to remain limited to the upper areas and will not impact most of the country.

Citizens are advised to:

• Stay hydrated
• Limit outdoor exposure, especially during peak hours.
• Take precautions for the elderly and children.
• Avoid unnecessary travel in extremely hot areas.