Punjab Faces Unusual Rise In Temperatures This Year
Reports from Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and international organizations indicate that most parts of Punjab province are likely to experience intense heat from late April to June. According to PMD’s seasonal outlook, temperatures are expected to remain above normal levels from March to May 2026.
In South Punjab, temperatures may rise by up to 6 degrees Celsius above average, with certain days seeing increases even higher than this, leading to potential heatwave conditions. In major urban areas like Lahore, the intensity of heat is expected to be significantly higher due to an “urban heat island effect.”
Environmental expert Dr Zulfiqar Ali explains that concrete structures, traffic, and air pollution in cities can cause temperatures to rise above rural areas. In Lahore, temperatures during May are forecasted to reach up to 45 degrees Celsius.
The Meteorological Department’s Heatwave Alert System classifies temperatures of 42 degrees Celsius or higher as heatwaves. If such high temperatures persist for several consecutive days, the situation could become more severe. Director Aleemul Hasan expects temperatures in Lahore to reach up to 38 degrees Celsius by the end of April and noted that historically, Lahore has recorded temperatures as high as 46 degrees Celsius.
Director General Sahibzada Khan warns that temperatures in June and July may exceed 44 degrees Celsius, further intensifying the heat. Dr Zulfiqar Ali attributes rising temperatures to climate change, reduced rainfall, high-pressure systems, deforestation, and lack of greenery in urban areas.
The Meteorological Department advises citizens to take precautionary measures during potential heatwaves, such as avoiding outdoor activities during peak hours, drinking plenty of water, wearing light clothing, and keeping heads covered. The Environmental Protection Department recommends promoting tree plantation, strengthening the heatwave alert system, ensuring hospitals are prepared for heatstroke cases, and maintaining water supply.
Experts warn that if timely measures are not taken, heatwaves in Punjab could become more severe in coming years, affecting human health, water availability, and energy demand.