The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted rain and thunderstorms in several northern regions while warning that an intense heatwave will continue across many parts of the country until May 31.

According to the latest forecast, scattered rainfall is expected in parts of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan on Monday. Weather officials said upper districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to remain partly cloudy, with strong winds and thunderstorms expected in Kohistan, Swat, Malam Jabba and Kalam.

Light drizzle may also occur in some nearby areas, while the popular hill stations of Murree and Galiyat are expected to witness partly cloudy weather.

However, most plain areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are likely to remain hot and dry. The meteorological department also warned that central and southern Punjab, Sindh and several districts of Balochistan may continue to face severe heatwave conditions during the coming days.

Officials said daytime temperatures from today until May 31 could remain 5°C to 7°C above normal levels. Cities including Sukkur, Jacobabad, Larkana, Dadu, Hyderabad, Sibi, Turbat, Dera Ghazi Khan and Multan may record extremely high temperatures between 47°C and 50°C.

Meanwhile, temperatures in Karachi are expected to remain between 35°C and 38°C.

Authorities have advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during peak daytime hours, stay hydrated and take precautionary measures to protect themselves from heat-related illnesses.