2 die as Sibi swelters in record-breaking heat

Two people have died in Balochistan’a Sibi from heat-related causes, while 20 others were in critical conditions as the punishing heat wave griped the country.

The Met department said temperatures hit nearly 52 degrees Celsius in the day, causing heat strokes and other health-related issues. Many more were hospitalised because of dehydration.

Meanwhile, The Pakistan Meteorological Department on Thursday forecast pre-monsoon rains from June 25 to 30. Monsoon season begins in Pakistan on July 1 and lasts till Sept 30.

According to the PMD forecast, the intense heat wave is likely to prevail in most parts of the country till early next week. The temperatures will remain one to two degrees Celsius above the long-term average in the plain areas of the country.

Mostly dry weather conditions with chances of one or two isolated rainfall/thunderstorm events with dust storms are expected next week.

During the last week of the month, weather is likely to remain rainy and two to three rainy spells are likely in upper parts of the country, including Northeast Punjab, Upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

According to the PMD, the moist currents were penetrating in upper and central parts of the country from the Arabian Sea and a westerly wave is likely to enter upper parts of the country on June 25 which would cause rains.

Severe heat wave

The department also issued an alert regarding anticipated increase in heat waves and intensity, which is expected to persist until June 24.

Meanwhile, the climate change ministry emphasised the need for vigilance and precautionary measures among district administrations, local organisations, and communities as temperatures in G-B and K-P were expected to rise by 4-6 degrees Celsius above normal.

This significant temperature increase raised concerns about the heightened risk of flash floods and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods in the region, a statement issued by the ministry said.