An impending heatwave is set to engulf Punjab, with temperatures soaring past 40 degrees Celsius, according to predictions by environmental experts. Dr. Zulfiqar, renowned for his expertise in climate research, foresees a scorching heatwave hitting Punjab from May 12, echoing the sweltering conditions currently plaguing Sindh.
Dr. Zulfiqar urged residents to minimize outdoor activities and seek shelter indoors to evade the risk of heatstroke. He recommended maintaining indoor humidity levels by placing water in wide pots.
Meteorological Department Forecasts Near-Normal Rainfall, Elevated Temperatures
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) released its monthly outlook for May, projecting a persistent neutral phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and a prevailing positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). The PMD anticipates near-normal rainfall across most regions of the country, with some areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Balochistan, northern Punjab, and Azad Kashmir likely to experience slightly above-normal rainfall.
While daytime maximum temperatures are expected to rise slightly above normal in northern and southern regions, central areas, including parts of Punjab and southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, may see normal to slightly below normal temperatures. The PMD also forecasts warmer-than-normal minimum temperatures nationwide, particularly in northern KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
Agriculture to Benefit from Above-Normal Precipitation, But Risks Remain
The PMD emphasized the potential benefits of above-normal precipitation for agriculture in Pakistan during May. However, it cautioned against the threat of hailstorms and windstorms in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Photohar region, and Gilgit-Baltistan, which could damage standing wheat crops during the harvesting stage.
Highlighting the conducive atmospheric conditions for heatwave development, especially in the plain areas of the southern half of the country, the PMD also noted anticipated higher temperatures in high-altitude regions. This is expected to accelerate snowmelt in northern areas, offering opportunities for irrigation and power generation.
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