Despite assurances from the Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) that the current heat wave in Lahore would subside today, meteorologists caution that extreme temperatures may persist for several more days.

The prolonged heat wave has caused widespread distress across the city, leading to numerous hospitalizations due to heat-related illnesses. Not only humans but also animals and birds have been adversely affected, displaying signs of distress. Residents’ difficulties have been compounded by ongoing power outages, despite Lahore Electric Supply Company’s (LESCO) efforts to address the shortfall. Technical faults in both old and new transformers have resulted in widespread blackouts, exacerbating the situation.

The scorching temperatures are not limited to Lahore alone but are plaguing much of the country. Mohenjodaro recorded a staggering 53 degrees Celsius in the past 24 hours, marking the highest temperature nationwide. The Meteorological Department predicts that the next two days will offer little relief, with most plain areas experiencing intense heat. Dusty winds and thunderstorms may provide brief respite in the afternoons, but it is unlikely to alleviate the situation significantly.

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Here’s an overview of the heat wave across the country:

• Islamabad: Temperatures are expected to be 3 to 5 degrees above normal during the day, with very hot weather predicted.
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Extreme heat is forecasted, with day temperatures likely to be 4 to 6 degrees above normal.
• Punjab: Most plains in Punjab will remain under a heat wave, with temperatures forecasted to be 6 to 8 degrees above normal.
• Murree and Galiyat: Dry weather is expected.
• Balochistan: Hot weather is predicted in most districts.
• Sindh: Upper districts will endure a severe heat wave with temperatures 6 to 8 degrees above normal, while the coastal belt will remain hot and humid.

Authorities recommend that citizens stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and take special care of vulnerable populations such as the elderly and children. Immediate infrastructural improvements are necessary to address the ongoing power outages caused by transformer faults and mitigate the impact of the relentless heat.