Punjab Heatwave Alert Issued Before Eid Holidays

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued a province-wide heatwave alert for the Eid-ul-Adha holidays, warning that extreme temperatures are expected across the province from May 25 to May 31.

According to the advisory, temperatures in Upper and Central Punjab are likely to remain between 42°C and 45°C, while parts of South Punjab may experience severe heat, with temperatures expected to rise between 47°C and 50°C.

The PDMA said weather conditions will remain hotter than normal during the day and night, increasing the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion, especially during the busy Eid holiday period.

Major Cities Expected to Face Extreme Heat

In Upper and Central Punjab, the affected cities include Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sargodha, and Gujranwala. These areas are expected to face intense daytime heat, while night temperatures may also remain unusually high.

In Southern Punjab, the heatwave is expected to be more severe. Cities including Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Multan, and Rahim Yar Khan may record temperatures close to 50°C.

The authority has also warned of possible dusty winds and storms in different parts of the province during the heatwave period.

PDMA Issues Public Safety Advisory

The PDMA has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, when temperatures are expected to remain at their peak.

Residents have been urged to:

Increase water intake and stay hydrated
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
Wear light and loose clothing
Use ORS and other cooling measures if needed

Special care has been recommended for children, women, senior citizens, outdoor workers, and individuals with existing health conditions, as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Emergency Departments Put on High Alert

As part of emergency preparedness measures, Rescue 1122 and the Health Department have been placed on high alert to respond to possible cases of heatstroke and dehydration during the Eid holidays.

District administrations across Punjab have also been instructed to establish cooling points and relief camps in vulnerable areas to provide assistance to the public during extreme weather conditions.

The PDMA has urged citizens to stay updated through official weather advisories and take precautionary measures while traveling, shopping, or attending outdoor gatherings during Eid al-Adha celebrations.