Record-breaking Heatwave Hits Pakistan with Temperatures Surpassing 52°C
Pakistan's southern province of Sindh experiences scorching temperatures exceeding 52 degrees Celsius (125.6 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the peak of a relentless heatwave. The met office confirms this as the highest temperature of the summer and nearing the country's all-time record high.
The met office reported that temperatures in Pakistan's southern province of Sindh soared above 52 degrees Celsius (125.6 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the highest reading of the summer and nearing the country's record high during the ongoing heat wave.
A team of international scientists suggested that the recent extreme temperatures across Asia were likely exacerbated by human-induced climate change.
In Mohenjo Daro, a town in Sindh known for archaeological sites from 2500 BC, temperatures reached 52.2 C (126 F) in the past day, according to Shahid Abbas from the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
This temperature is the highest of the summer season and is close to the town's highest recorded temperature of 53.5 C (128.3 F) and the country's highest recorded temperature of 54 C (129.2 F).
Mohenjo Daro is a quaint town with scorching hot summers, gentle winters, and minimal rainfall. Despite its limited market offerings such as bakeries, tea shops, mechanics, electronic repair shops, and fruit and vegetable vendors, these establishments are typically busy with customers.
However, due to the ongoing heat wave, the shops are now experiencing a significant decrease in foot traffic.
A vendor selling ice, slices a piece from an ice block for a customer at his shop on a hot summer noon in in Karachi on May 27, 2024.
A vendor selling ice, slices a piece from an ice block for a customer at his shop on a hot summer noon in in Karachi on May 27, 2024.
Wajid Ali, 32, who owns a tea stall in the town, shared that the extreme heat has been keeping customers away from his restaurant. He expressed his frustration at sitting idle at the restaurant with tables and chairs but no customers.
Taking multiple baths throughout the day helps me feel a bit better, especially since we have no power. The intense heat has been making us all feel very uncomfortable.
Right next to Ali's shop, there is an electronic repairs shop owned by Abdul Khaliq, who is 30 years old. He was sitting inside the shop with the shutter halfway down to block out the sun. Khaliq also mentioned that the heat was impacting his business.
Local doctor Mushtaq Ahmed mentioned that the residents have adapted to the harsh weather conditions by staying indoors or close to water.
"Pakistan is ranked as the fifth most at-risk country for climate change effects. We have experienced higher than usual rainfall and floods," stated Rubina Khursheed Alam, the prime minister's climate coordinator, during a recent press briefing. She also mentioned that the government is conducting awareness campaigns in response to the heat waves.
Student Lim Sokha, 15, uses a fan to cool down during her class in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 2, 2024.
Student Lim Sokha, 15, uses a fan to cool down during her class in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on May 2, 2024.
Chan Tha Lach/Reuters
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In 2017, the city of Turbat in Pakistan experienced scorching temperatures reaching 54 C (129.2 F), making it the second hottest in Asia and the fourth highest globally. According to Sardar Sarfaraz, Chief Meteorologist at the Pakistan Meteorological Department, this extreme heatwave was a significant event.
The heat wave will subside in Mohenjo Daro and surrounding areas, but another spell is expected to hit other areas in Sindh, including the capital, Karachi — Pakistan’s largest city.
Editor's P/S:
The scorching temperatures in Pakistan's Sindh province are a sobering reminder of the devastating impacts of climate change. With temperatures soaring above 52 degrees Celsius, the extreme heat wave has caused significant hardship for residents, leading to decreased business and discomfort. The town of Mohenjo Daro, known for its ancient ruins, has been particularly hard-hit, with temperatures approaching the country's record high.
The international scientific community has attributed the recent extreme temperatures to human-induced climate change, highlighting the urgent need for global action to mitigate its effects. Pakistan is particularly vulnerable to climate change, being ranked as the fifth most at-risk country for climate change effects. The government has acknowledged the severity of the situation and is conducting awareness campaigns to educate residents about the dangers of heat waves. However, more comprehensive and long-term measures are needed to address the root causes of climate change and protect vulnerable populations from its devastating consequences.
