In Karachi, heatwave to persist until Saturday evening

Sindh Rangers set up heat stroke centres in city following the heatwave alert

KARACHI: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another spell of the heatwave to hit Karachi on Friday and Saturday, predicting the temperature to rise to 42 degree Celsius during these two days.

According to PMD, the weather will remain unusually hot and dry on Friday as southwestern winds from the sea will remain suspended from morning till afternoon. The temperature will start dropping from Sunday evening, says the PMD.

Meanwhile, Sindh Rangers have established more than 30 heatstroke centres in different parts of Karachi, following the heatwave warning issued by PMD.

Doctors along with other medical staff are deputed at these centres to assist people who suffer from heatstroke. These centres will also offer water and juices to pedestrians to combat dehydration and create awareness about steps that can be taken to prevent heatstroke. Furthermore, ambulances, air coolers, and medicines are also available at these centres.

Areas where the heatstroke camps have been set up include Malir Kala Board, University of Karachi, Battahiabad, Bahadurabad, Maskan Chowrangi, Surjani town, KDA Chowrangi, Safari Park, Hub River Road, Kati Pahari, Orangi Town, Maripur, Gulbai, Chakiwara Kharadar, Grumindir, Gulshan-e-Bihar, and Mehmoodabad.

Additionally, the heatwave centre set up by PMD has advised that all relevant city institutions be prepared to deal with any kind of medical emergencies despite the reduced risk of heatstroke due to the moderate moisture level in the air.

Keeping in view the rising temperature, health experts have advised elderly people, children and those suffering from the disease to avoid traveling during the daytime. They also suggested taking a cold bath and avoiding further exposure to the sun as remedial measures for people affected by heatstroke.

Additional reporting by PPI 

Published in The Express Tribune, May 3^rd, 2019.