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