An extreme heatwave continues to affect much of Pakistan, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warning that unusually high temperatures will persist over the weekend.
The extreme heat is being caused by a strong high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere, expected to keep conditions intense for at least the next three to four days.
In the northern and central areas, including Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, daytime temperatures are projected to stay 5 to 7°C above normal until May 19.
Meanwhile, in southern parts of the country, such as Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan, the heat is expected to linger at 4 to 6°C above usual levels through May 20.
Friday and Saturday are expected to be particularly hot and dry across most regions, with central and southern districts feeling the brunt of the heat.
Over the past 24 hours, hot and dry weather dominated the country, with extremely high temperatures in the plains. Turbat and Dadu recorded the highest at 48°C, closely followed by Dera Ghazi Khan at 47°C.
Urban centres such as Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Multan, and Peshawar are forecast to experience daytime highs between 40°C and 48°C this weekend.
Coastal areas like Karachi will face heat mixed with humidity, while interior locations like Dadu and Mohenjo-Daro may approach 50°C.
Authorities have urged people to stay indoors during the hottest hours, drink plenty of water, and take extra care to protect children, the elderly, and others vulnerable to extreme heat.