Karachi feels the heat

Second day of the heatwave was recorded as the hottest day this summer

KARACHI: The heatwave hit Karachi in full swing on Wednesday, which was recorded as the hottest day this summer. The weather remained hot and dry with mercury hitting 42 degree Celsius. Hot gusts of wind blew across the city as southwestern winds from the sea remained suspended all day while dusty northwestern winds from Balochistan affected visibility. The weather advisory issued by the heatwave centre said that the current weather conditions will persist till May 4.

The moisture level recorded on Wednesday was only 20%, which is why despite high temperatures the extreme level of heat was not felt as acutely. According to Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the risk of the current situation turning as disastrous as the one experienced in 2015 is low. Citizens are taking precautionary measures as they are more aware of the situation. They have also installed water troughs and made arrangements to provide chilled juices at different locations in the city.



The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has appealed to citizens to cover their heads before going out in the sun. Citizens are advised to stay indoors but if they must head out, they should keep umbrellas, wet towels and water. Besides, children should avoid playing outside and hard labour has been discouraged in this weather.

Heatwave relief centres have been established by the Sindh government, traffic police and Sindh Rangers at various places in the city.

The relief centres have water bottles and ORS available for citizens. The availability of medical facilities and necessary medicines for heatstroke patients at heatwave centres has also been ensured.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 2^nd, 2019.