Heatwave bakes Karachiites

Hot and dry weather persisted in the city on Friday as the mercury recorded 39.5 degrees while sea breeze remained suspended. The effects of the north-westerly hot winds of Balochistan and the scorching sun were compounded by moderate thunderstorms in the afternoon. According to Pakistan Meteorological Department, humidity in the air was moderately low at 22 per cent, due to which real feel temperature was similar to the recorded mercury reading.

In Shaheed Benazirabad, temperature hit 42 degrees Celsius, four degrees above October's average temperature. Mercury was recorded at 41.5 degrees in Hyderabad and Tando Jam.

According to the forecast, the current heat wave may continue till Sunday, during which the maximum temperature may remain between 37 and 39 degrees. In the first half of the day, sea breezes will be completely inactive, and hot and dry winds may blow from Balochistan.