Pakistan

Heat in Larkana, Sibi, DI Khan set new records

Met Office warns temperatures are expected to spike over the next two months

Sehrish Wasif April 20, 2017

Temperatures across the country were expected to fall by three or four degrees Centigrade after setting new records in April. PHOTO: REUTERS

ISLAMABAD: Temperatures in Larkana, Sibi, Dera Ismail Khan and Faisalabad broke decades-old records for the month of April on Wednesday, Meteorological Department data suggested on Wednesday.

Based on the current weather patterns and impact of climate change in Pakistan, the Met Office warned that temperatures were expected to spike over the next two months.

It also cautioned that rainfall would be much below average, resulting in acute water shortages across the country.

According to the data gathered by the Met Office, the mercury levels touched 50 degrees Centigrade, smashing a 17-year-old record.

Previously, the highest temperature recorded in this city was 48.5°C on April 26, 2000.

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Meanwhile, temperature in Sibbi touched 48°C in Sibbi while smashing a 36-year record. On April 12, 1981 the highest recorded temperature was 47°C in Sibbi.

In Dera Ismail Khan, the highest temperature recorded was 45°C on Wednesday. Eleven years ago, the highest temperature was recorded on April 29, 2006 at 44°C.

In Faisalabad, temperature peaked at 44.5°C. A decade ago, the highest temperature was recorded at 44°C on April 29, 2007.

Director-General of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) Dr Ghulam Rasul told The Express Tribune that these new records were set in April just at the beginning of summer in the country.

“The PMD has maintained monthly historical weather events and after evaluating the data for April, it is announcing these new records that were set on Wednesday,” he said.

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He said in early February this year, the Met Office had warned about the early onset of summer in the country.

“Based on the current weather situation, it is expected that temperatures will further rise in May and June,” he said.

Dr Rasul said that temperatures across the country were expected to fall by three or four degrees Centigrade after setting new records in April.

“Light to moderate rain coupled with dust/thunderstorms are expected in upper areas of the country. Meanwhile, hailstorms are also expected, bringing down the mercury level,” he said.

After April 24, he said, temperatures across the country were again expected to rise again.