Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling port city, is currently grappling with a severe heatwave exacerbated by low air pressure in the Arabian Sea, which is blocking its traditionally soothing sea breeze. Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz, from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), provided insights into the weather conditions, forecasting no immediate relief in the form of rain but suggesting the possibility of drizzles in certain areas.
The recent weather pattern has seen temperatures soaring above 40°C, with real-feel temperatures surpassing 50°C, making life challenging for Karachi’s residents. Prolonged power outages, known locally as loadshedding, have compounded the discomfort caused by the extreme heat, prompting widespread concerns and complaints among the populace.
According to Sarfaraz, Karachi can expect partly cloudy skies, which may offer slight respite from the relentless heat but without the cooling effect of the usual sea breeze due to the prevailing low air pressure in the Arabian Sea. The PMD’s advisory indicates that the city will continue to experience hot and humid weather conditions over the next 24 hours, with minimum temperatures hovering around 30.5°C and maximum temperatures ranging between 36 to 38°C. Humidity levels remain high, adding to the discomfort felt by residents.
Earlier in the week, Karachi briefly experienced relief when some parts of the city received sporadic rainfall. This temporary reprieve, though welcomed, was short-lived as humidity quickly returned, negating the cooling effects of the rain.
Addressing the issue of loadshedding, Sindh Energy Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah assured the public that efforts were underway to mitigate its impact. He instructed power utilities, including K-Electric, Hesco, and Sepco, to refrain from conducting loadshedding during the night hours between 10pm and 6am. This directive aims to provide relief to residents who often suffer through sleepless nights due to the combination of heat and power cuts.
During a media briefing at the Sindh Assembly, Shah emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the people of Sindh during these challenging times. He revealed that recent discussions with utility companies had resulted in measures to reduce both daytime and nighttime loadshedding, with a strict requirement for advanced public notice of any planned outages.
Shah announced the formation of a committee dedicated to combating electricity theft, a persistent issue contributing to power shortages in the region. He pledged government support for institutions undertaking emergency measures to alleviate the hardships faced by Sindh’s residents, particularly during the scorching summer months.
While Karachi’s residents await more favorable weather conditions and relief from the stifling heat, the government’s efforts to manage loadshedding and provide essential services underscore its commitment to addressing the immediate challenges posed by the extreme weather. Despite the current difficulties, the resilience of Karachi’s inhabitants and the proactive measures by authorities offer hope for better conditions in the days ahead, ensuring the city can navigate through these testing times with greater stability and comfort.
