Punjab likely to face intense heatwave from late April to June

LAHORE: Punjab is expected to experience unusually high temperatures and possible heatwave conditions during the coming summer months, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s seasonal outlook and assessments cited alongside international organisations.

The outlook says temperatures are likely to stay above normal from March to May 2026 across much of the province. In some areas, especially South Punjab, temperatures may climb 4 to 6 degrees Celsius above average, while on certain days the increase could be even greater, creating heatwave conditions.

According to the available data, temperatures in April may remain 1 to 2 degrees Celsius above normal, increasing to 2 to 3 degrees above normal in May. In June, extreme heat could push temperatures in some places to 45 to 46 degrees Celsius.

Major urban centres, including Lahore, are also expected to feel stronger heat intensity. Environmental expert Dr Zulfiqar Ali said cities tend to become hotter than surrounding rural areas because of the urban heat island effect, which develops due to concrete structures, traffic and air pollution.

He said temperatures in Lahore during May may range between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius.

Heatwave risk expected to rise in May and June

Under the Meteorological Department’s heatwave alert system, temperatures of 42 degrees Celsius or above are classified as a heatwave. If such temperatures continue for several days, the situation can become more serious.

Director of the Meteorological Department in Lahore Aleemul Hasan said temperatures may rise to 38 degrees Celsius by the end of April. He also said Lahore has historically recorded temperatures as high as 46 degrees Celsius in April, adding that the chances of heatwaves would increase in May and June.

Director General of the Meteorological Department Sahibzada Khan also warned that temperatures in June and July could go beyond 44 degrees Celsius, adding to the severity of the weather.

Experts cite climate and urban factors

Dr Zulfiqar Ali said the rise in temperatures is being driven by climate change, lower rainfall, high-pressure systems in the atmosphere, deforestation and the shortage of greenery in urban areas.

“Both the intensity and duration of heatwaves are increasing in Punjab. Hot and dry winds may intensify in South Punjab, and extreme heat could negatively impact the agricultural sector, particularly crop yields”, he noted.

The Meteorological Department and other relevant authorities have advised the public to take precautionary steps in view of the expected heat. Citizens have been urged to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement during peak heat hours, drink plenty of water, wear light clothing and keep their heads covered.

The Environmental Protection Department has recommended increasing tree plantation in cities, improving the heatwave alert system, ensuring hospitals are ready to deal with heatstroke cases and maintaining water supply.

Experts have warned that without timely action, heatwaves in Punjab could become more severe in the coming years, with implications for public health, water availability and energy demand.