PDMA warns of severe heatwave across Punjab

LAHORE (Dunya News) - Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab has issued a heatwave alert predicting above-normal temperatures across most districts of Punjab.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, temperatures are expected to remain 5 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal in many districts from May 25 to May 31.

Authorities warned that temperatures in upper Punjab could range between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius during the ongoing heatwave.

The alert stated that temperatures are likely to rise in Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Lahore, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Okara, Kasur and Faisalabad.

Similarly, southern and central Punjab districts including Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Rahim Yar Khan, Bahawalpur, Bhakkar, Sargodha, Jhang and Mianwali are also expected to experience intense heat.

According to the alert, temperatures in southern Punjab could rise between 47 and 50 degrees Celsius.

Nabeel Javed directed commissioners and deputy commissioners to remain on high alert.

Director General PDMA Umar Javed said nights were also expected to remain hotter than usual and warned of dust storms and strong winds due to extreme heat.

He advised citizens to avoid direct sunlight between 10am and 4pm and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed especially urged children, women and elderly citizens to take precautionary measures and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak heat hours.

The PDMA also directed farmers to take preventive steps for protecting crops and livestock, while Rescue 1122 was instructed to remain prepared for heatstroke and dehydration emergencies.

Authorities further ordered the establishment of relief camps in urban areas along with the provision of clean drinking water, ORS and first aid facilities.

Umar Javed added that rising temperatures could also accelerate snow melting in northern areas.