ISLAMABAD: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Sindh said in a report on Thursday that it has treated over 620 heatwave patients since Apr. 28, as authorities continue to take precautionary measures amid the scorching weather.
The PDMA Sindh issued its weather advisory for May 14, warning deputy commissioners and deputy disaster management authorities (DDMAs) that hot weather is likely to prevail over most parts of the province on Thursday.
The advisory comes as large parts of Pakistan enter the peak pre-monsoon heat season, during which temperatures in Sindh regularly climb above 45°C (113°F). Cities such as Jacobabad, Dadu and Mohenjo Daro have repeatedly ranked among the hottest places on Earth during past heatwaves, with temperatures in Sindh reaching above 52°C (125.6°F) during extreme weather events in recent years.
“Keeping in view the above, it is requested that all concerned Deputy Commissioners /Chairman DDMAs and other relevant authorities/stakeholders may take all necessary mitigation measures,” the advisory read.
In a separate heatwave situation report, the PDMA said it has established 1,109 heatwave camps and stabilization centers across the province from Apr. 28.
The province has reported 628 heatwave cases during the same period. Around 626 persons have been treated, while one person died, the report said.
One of the heatwave patients remains under treatment, the situation report said.
The Hyderabad district has reported the highest number of cases, 223, in the same period, followed by Shaheed Benazirabad district with 189 cases.
Naushahro Feroze has reported 70 heatwave cases since Apr. 28, while Khairpur district has reported 62.
As Pakistan takes precautionary measures against the heat, authorities have advised residents to avoid direct sunlight during daytime hours and remain hydrated, while farmers were urged to manage wheat harvesting activities carefully and protect livestock from extreme heat
Pakistan is considered one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change and extreme weather, facing increasingly frequent heatwaves, floods and droughts in recent years.
