Karachi witnessed its hottest day of the year so far as temperatures reached a scorching 37 degrees Celsius in Shahr Quaid on Sunday. The Department of Meteorology reported that the city was engulfed in a sweltering and humid atmosphere, with sea breezes offering little respite. Despite the recorded temperature, the humidity level spiked to 45%, exacerbating the perceived heat. Compared to Saturday’s maximum temperature of 34.1 degrees Celsius, Sunday’s peak marked a significant increase of 2.9 degrees.
The Early Warning Center of the Meteorological Department issued a caution regarding a potential partial heatwave due to a temporary halt in sea breezes and the influence of north-westerly winds from Balochistan, which could drive temperatures above 39 degrees Celsius. However, Chief Meteorologist Karachi, Sardar Sarfraz, provided reassurance that while the city prepares for the heat, the likelihood of a full-fledged heatwave remains low.
This optimism is attributed to the expected moisture content in the air, projected to range between 10 to 20 percent during this period. Nonetheless, other parts of the province are also expected to experience hot and dry weather conditions according to forecasts. Residents of Karachi are advised to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, minimizing direct sun exposure during peak hours, and seeking shelter in well-ventilated areas, to cope with the heat.
