Karachi on Sunday heaved a sigh of relief as the mercury dipped to a maximum of 37 degrees Celsius, bringing much-needed reprieve after days of a heatwave.
The Meteorological Department said that the current temperature of the city has been recorded at 37 degrees Celsius while the intensity of heat is being felt up to 39 degrees Celsius.
The department said that southwesterly winds are blowing at a speed of 20 kmph in the city at present, however, a slight decrease in temperature will be felt from today till May 17.
The meteorological department warned that a new heatwave will begin on May 18, with temperatures likely to exceed 40 degrees.
Read more: Karachi’s potential water disaster
The National Institutes of Health issued a heatstroke guideline in the wake of the recent high temperature.
According to the guidelines issued, heatstroke is a medical condition which can be fatal if not treated in time.
Symptoms include hot and dry skin, weakness or lethargy, fever, headache, and rapid heartbeat.
If heatstroke is not treated properly in time, it can cause damage to limbs, including death, or even disability.
Infants, people over the age of 65, people with diabetes and high blood pressure, athletes and outdoor workers are at higher risk of heatstroke.
Pakistan met department also issued the following advisory:
- The general public is advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight and take precautionary measures.
- Farmers are advised to manage crop water accordingly.
- Special care should be taken for the needs of livestock and pets.
- Judicious use of water is requested in all aspects of life.