The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast a heatwave across the country with temperatures in Karachi expected to reach 42°C [1].

Extreme heat in Pakistan's urban centers often leads to significant public health risks and puts immense pressure on the national power grid during peak demand. The current weather pattern threatens to disrupt daily activity across several regions as the mercury rises.

The heatwave conditions are expected to persist from June 7 to June 12, 2026 [2]. This period of intense heat is driven by a high-pressure system forming in the upper atmosphere [2]. The PMD said this system began to develop on June 8, 2026 [2].

Karachi is among the hardest-hit areas, where the maximum temperature is forecast to hit 42°C [1]. The PMD has monitored these conditions as the high-pressure system traps heat near the surface, a common driver for severe heatwaves in the region.

While the weather agency has issued warnings for various regions, the peak of the heatwave was identified around June 8 [2]. Local authorities said citizens should remain hydrated and limit outdoor exposure during the hottest parts of the day to prevent heatstroke.

The meteorological department continues to track the movement of the atmospheric system to determine when temperatures will begin to subside. The current forecast indicates that the oppressive heat will remain a primary concern for residents until at least June 12 [2].

Temperatures in Karachi expected to reach 42°C

The recurrence of severe heatwaves in Pakistan highlights the region's vulnerability to extreme weather patterns. When a high-pressure system stalls over the area, it prevents cooler air from entering and traps heat, which can lead to critical spikes in temperature. This event underscores the necessity for urban heat-mitigation strategies and robust emergency health responses to manage the risks of heat-related illnesses in densely populated cities like Karachi.