Rising mercury levels

Parts of Pakistan are once again facing dangerously high temperatures, with southern and central regions recording up to 47.7°C over the weekend. Forecasts warn that temperatures may rise even further, potentially nearing the global April record of 50°C, set in Nawabshah in 2018.

As advised by relevant authorities and experts, citizens must take urgent precautionary measures due to severe health risks tied with such soaring temperatures.

These extreme temperatures are nothing short of life-threatening. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to dehydration, heatstroke and even death, particularly among children, the elderly, outdoor workers and those without access to electricity or clean water. Once again, it is the poor who are most at risk.

This climate emergency calls for more than just reactive measures like public advisories and school closures. Pakistan must build long-term climate resilience through investment in tree plantation, cooling centres, public awareness campaigns and rural outreach. Cities need to reduce the urban heat island effect by increasing green cover and regulating concrete expansion.

The impact on agriculture is also significant. Heat stress on crops and livestock threatens food security and farmer livelihoods, adding economic pressure to an already struggling population. At the same time, power outages caused by excessive electricity demand for cooling deepen the crisis, particularly in low-income areas.

Pakistan contributes little to global emissions but bears some of the harshest consequences. It must continue pushing for international climate justice and financial support. But domestically, urgent action is needed. This is not an isolated weather event but rather a sign of what is to come in a rapidly warming world. The cost of inaction is no longer theoretical. It is here, and it is burning.