KARACHI: Several districts across Sindh are reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures expected to soar 5 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal today, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said on Monday.

According to the Met Office, Larkana, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Kashmore, Qambar Shahdadkot district, Ghotki district, Sukkur district and other areas are likely to witness unusually high temperatures as the heatwave intensifies across the province.

In Karachi, Thatta, Sujawal, Badin, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, and Tharparkar, intermittent strong winds are forecast to continue today, compounding the hot and dry conditions that have gripped the region in recent days.

The PMD said Karachi is expected to experience hot and humid weather on Tuesday and Wednesday, with maximum temperatures likely to range between 36°C and 38°C. However, sea breezes are expected to resume, providing some relief to residents.

The weather alert follows a week of steadily rising temperatures in the port city. On Sunday, the mercury peaked at nearly 40°C, and similar conditions are expected to persist in the coming days.

Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal has previously warned of a nationwide increase in temperatures due to climate change and the urban heat island effect, particularly in densely populated cities like Karachi. 

He cautioned that temperatures could remain 2°C to 3°C above normal across much of the country and up to 4°C higher in Karachi.

With heat posing growing challenges, the PMD has urged citizens to take precautionary measures. These include staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun hours, and conserving water to ease the burden on public infrastructure.