Karachi heatwave: 2 more die as city’s feels like temperature reaches 54°

Karachi Heatwave Claims Lives:

Two Deaths Confirmed as Temperatures Soar. Get the latest updates on the heatwave and tips to stay safe during extreme heat conditions.

KARACHI: The Sindh Health Department reported two additional fatalities in Karachi over the past couple of days due to the ongoing heatwave, bringing the total death toll from heat stroke since June to 51.

The city’s temperature has soared to unprecedented levels, with the actual temperature reaching 40.5°C, while the feels-like temperature has skyrocketed to a staggering 56°C. The extreme heat, compounded by unannounced power outages, has severely impacted daily life.

Heatwave Karachi: Impact on Public Health

Civil Hospital has recorded the latest deaths, adding to the alarming rise in heat-related fatalities. In the last 24 hours alone, nearly 50 cases of heatstroke have been reported, highlighting the urgent need for public health interventions and relief measures.

Environmental Factors

Meteorologists explain that the feels-like temperature is influenced by several factors including humidity, air temperature, and wind speed. Currently, Karachi is experiencing 37°C with 64% humidity and a 24-kilometre-per-hour sea breeze, creating a feels-like temperature of 54°C.

Government Response

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) continues to monitor the situation, advising residents to take necessary precautions. The government has urged citizens to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of heatstroke appear.

Heatwave Safety Tips

1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration during the heatwave in Karachi.
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Stay indoors during peak sunlight hours, usually between 10 AM and 4 PM, when the heatwave in Karachi is most intense.
3. Wear Lightweight Clothing: Choose light-colored, loose-fitting clothes to stay cool and allow your body to breathe.
4. Use Sunscreen: Apply a high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays during the heatwave in Karachi.
5. Keep Your Home Cool: Use fans, air conditioning, or cool damp cloths to lower the temperature in your home.
6. Avoid Strenuous Activity: Postpone outdoor activities or any strenuous exercise until the cooler parts of the day.
7. Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather reports and heatwave alerts for Karachi.
8. Eat Light Meals: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals and avoid heavy, hot foods to keep your body temperature down.
9. Take Cool Showers: Regularly take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
10. Use Cooling Products: Utilize items like ice packs, cooling towels, or wet cloths on your neck and wrists.
11. Create Cross-Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze and ventilate your living space.
12. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Ensure that the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions are staying cool and hydrated.
13. Stay in Shaded Areas: If you must be outside, stay in the shade as much as possible to avoid direct sunlight during the heatwave in Karachi.
14. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can lead to dehydration, so it’s best to limit these beverages during extreme heat.
15. Be Aware of Heat-Related Illnesses: Recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and seek immediate medical attention if needed.

By following these tips, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones during the ongoing heatwave in Karachi.

During the heatwave in Karachi, it’s crucial to stay safe and protect yourself from extreme temperatures. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoid direct sunlight, especially during peak hours. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and apply high-SPF sunscreen. Keep your home cool using fans or air conditioning, and avoid strenuous activities. Stay informed with the latest weather updates and eat light, frequent meals. Take cool showers, use cooling products, and create cross-ventilation in your home. Check on vulnerable individuals, stay in shaded areas, limit alcohol and caffeine, and be aware of heat-related illnesses to ensure safety.