RAWALPINDI: The scorching heatwave showed no signs of letting up on Thursday, as temperatures soared to 45°C in the city.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has cautioned that the extreme heat is expected to persist through Friday, with daytime temperatures in central and upper Punjab, including Rawalpindi, likely to remain 5–7°C above normal.
Health officials and authorities are urging residents to avoid sun exposure between 11am and 4pm, stay well-hydrated, and take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses.
The sweltering weather poses heightened health risks, particularly for children, senior citizens, and those working outdoors.
The MET Office explained that a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere is trapping hot continental air across much of the country.
Though a shallow westerly trough might bring dust storms, rain, or thunderstorms to parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, South Punjab, and Kashmir by evening, Rawalpindi is expected to remain hot and dry.
Friday’s forecast also points to continued intense heat in Rawalpindi, with partly cloudy skies and the possibility of dust storms in surrounding regions, though no immediate cooling relief is expected for the city.
Citizens are strongly advised to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, drink plenty of fluids, wear lightweight clothing, and watch for heatstroke symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and unusually high body temperatures.