Sindh recorded over 52°C (125.6°F) on Monday, marking the highest temperature of the summer and nearing the country’s record high, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD). This extreme heatwave in Mohenjo Daro saw temperatures reaching 52.2°C (126°F) in the past 24 hours, approaching the town’s record high of 53.5°C (128.3°F) and the country’s record of 54°C (129.2°F).

The severe heat, exacerbated by human-driven climate change, has led to a significant drop in business activity in Mohenjo Daro, a town known for its extremely hot summers and mild winters. Local businesses, including bakeries, tea shops, mechanics, electronic repair shops, and fruit and vegetable sellers, are experiencing a sharp decline in customers. Wajid Ali, a tea stall owner, mentioned that extreme heat has kept customers away, leaving him idle at his restaurant. The lack of power further aggravates the situation, making it difficult to find relief. Similarly, Abdul Khaliq, who runs an electronic repair shop, has had to work with his shop’s shutter half down to protect himself from the sun.

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Local doctor Mushtaq Ahmed noted that while residents have adapted to the extreme weather, preferring to stay indoors or near water, the current heatwave is particularly challenging. The highest temperature ever recorded in Pakistan was in 2017, when Turbat in Balochistan reached 54°C (129.2°F), the second highest in Asia and fourth highest globally, according to PMD Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz. Although the heatwave is expected to subside in Mohenjo Daro and surrounding areas, another spell is predicted to affect other parts of the province, including Karachi.