The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Wednesday issued a heatwave alert for the country, warning of significantly above-normal temperatures over the next several days, beginning tomorrow (Thursday).

According to the Met Office, a high-pressure system is expected to settle over most parts of the country, causing daytime temperatures to rise by 4 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal.

Regional Forecast: In the southern half of the country- including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan- temperatures are likely to remain 4 to 6°C above normal from May 15 to 20.

In the upper and central regions- including central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan- daytime temperatures are expected to remain 5 to 7°C above normal from May 15 to 19.

A westerly weather system is forecast to enter the upper parts of the country on the evening or night of May 19, potentially bringing rain, wind, and thunderstorms, with isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms expected in Kashmir, Islamabad, Potohar region, northeast Punjab, upper KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan on May 19 and 20.

Possible impacts and public advisory: Citizens, particularly children, the elderly, and women, have been advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and to stay hydrated.

Farmers have been advised to plan agricultural activities accordingly and take appropriate measures for livestock care. Rising temperatures in the northern areas may accelerate snowmelt, potentially affecting water flow in rivers.

The public has been urged to ensure the judicious use of water in all sectors. The PMD has advised all relevant authorities to remain alert and take precautionary measures to mitigate the effects of the heatwave.