Southern Pakistan is once again facing an extreme heatwave, with temperatures nearing or surpassing 50 degrees Celsius in several areas. Recent reports indicate that by the end of May 2026, the city of Dadu in southern Pakistan recorded a sweltering 51.5°C, while temperatures in Jacobabad and Larkana reached 50.5°C.
Reaching 52°C is not unprecedented in Pakistan. Back in 2024, Mohenjo Daro in the Sindh province experienced 52.2°C, marking the highest temperature of that summer.
Southern Pakistan, particularly the provinces of Sindh and Balochistan, ranks among the hottest inhabited regions on Earth. The country's official record stands at 53.7°C, recorded in Turbat in 2017, one of Asia's highest verified temperatures.
Traditionally, May and June are the hottest months in the region, but heatwaves have become increasingly severe and frequent in recent years. The Pakistan Meteorological Department had already warned in spring that temperatures could soar to 52°C in some areas.
What's Behind This?
Experts point to several factors contributing to the extreme heat:
- the rise in global average temperatures,
- more frequent and prolonged heatwaves,
- urban heat island effects,
- decreasing vegetation and forest areas,
- and changing weather patterns.
According to researchers from World Weather Attribution, human-induced climate change has roughly tripled the likelihood of such extreme heatwaves in South Asia.
Nighttime Heat: A Growing Concern
One of the most alarming trends is the extreme heat persisting not only during the day but also at night. During South Asian heatwaves, nighttime temperatures remain high, preventing the human body from recovering adequately. This significantly increases the risks of heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular issues.
The elderly, children, and outdoor workers are the most affected. In Pakistani cities, power outages and water shortages exacerbate the situation.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
Climate researchers highlight South Asia as a region where extreme heat occurrences are rapidly increasing. Temperatures of 50–52°C, once considered extraordinary just a few decades ago, are now frequently making headlines.
Pakistan's situation illustrates that climate change is no longer a distant future scenario. For millions, it has become a daily reality. Temperatures exceeding 50°C are not just meteorological records but also pose serious health, economic, and social challenges.
Sources:
propakistani.pk
reuters
Comments