According to the report shared by PMD, daytime temperatures in northern and central areas — including Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan — are expected to remain 5 to 7°C above seasonal averages from May 15 to 19.

The PMD attributes the ongoing heatwave to dry continental winds and the development of a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, which is gripping large parts of the country beginning Thursday.

In the southern regions, including Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan, the extreme heat is forecast to persist until at least May 20, with temperatures climbing 4 to 6°C above normal.

“Hot and dry conditions will prevail in most regions, with exceptionally high temperatures in the plains,” said Usama Ali Zuberi, forecasting officer at the PMD.

In the last 24 hours, scorching temperatures were recorded across lowland areas, with Dadu reaching 48°C and Jacobabad 47°C. Several other cities, including Sibbi, Turbat, Sukkur, Rohri, and Rahim Yar Khan, saw highs of 45°C.

No immediate relief is expected for southern cities. Dadu may reach 47–51°C in the coming days, while Nawabshah, Mithi, and Mohenjo-Daro could hover between 42–48°C. Even Karachi, with its typically humid climate, may see temperatures climb to 40°C.

Authorities have urged residents to take safety precautions, limit outdoor exposure, stay hydrated, and watch for signs of heatstroke.