Karachi: The city of Karachi continues to suffer from an intense heatwave, which has now claimed four more lives, bringing the total death toll to 49 since June 21. The Sindh Health Department confirmed the fatalities, all reported at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital within the last 24 hours.
The health department’s statement highlighted the alarming impact of the heatwave on the city’s hospitals. In the past ten days, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital alone has recorded 23 deaths due to heatstroke. Civil Hospital reported 18 deaths, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) reported 5, and Qatar Hospital reported 3.
Karachi has been experiencing unusually high temperatures, combined with high humidity, attributed to low air pressure. The city’s average temperature for the month has been 4 degrees Celsius above the norm. On Sunday, the temperature soared to 39.2°C, with the heat index making it feel like a scorching 55°C at its peak.
Adding to the city’s woes, Karachi recorded its hottest July night since 2021 last night, with temperatures only dipping to 32°C. This is significantly higher than the usual July night temperatures of around 31°C, indicating an ongoing trend of rising nighttime temperatures.
Despite the oppressive heat, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast heavy rains for most parts of the country starting tomorrow. The PMD expects vigorous monsoon activity in the upper and central regions of Pakistan throughout the week. The PMD has urged authorities to stay alert and implement measures to prevent any adverse outcomes.
No Rain Relief for Karachi Amid Heatwave
However, Karachi is not expected to receive any respite from the heat, as there is no rain forecast for the city. The Met Office’s statement cautioned about the potential for torrential rains to disrupt daily life in the northern parts of the country. The PMD expects strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal to affect these areas from July 3.
Also Read: Karachi Reports Over 100 Heat Stroke Cases in 10 Days
As Karachi endures this severe heatwave, authorities advise residents to take precautions, stay hydrated, and avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun. The city continues to grapple with the dual challenges of extreme heat and ongoing load shedding, exacerbating the situation for its inhabitants.