The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast a widespread and intense heatwave across the country during the upcoming Eidul Adha holidays, warning that temperatures may remain significantly above normal from May 25 to May 31.

According to the advisory issued on Thursday, a strong high-pressure system is expected to form in the upper atmosphere on May 25 and intensify further on May 26, triggering moderate to severe heatwave conditions nationwide.

The Met Office said temperatures are likely to rise 5°C to 7°C above normal in several regions, with maximums reaching 42°C to 45°C in major northern and central cities including Peshawar, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, Sialkot, and surrounding districts.

In upper and hilly areas such as Malakand, Hazara, Gilgit-Baltistan, and parts of Azad Kashmir, temperatures are expected to remain 5°C to 7°C above normal, ranging between 38°C and 40°C.

In southern and interior regions—including Sindh, southern Punjab, Balochistan, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—temperatures may rise 4°C to 6°C above normal, with extreme highs of 47°C to 50°C in cities such as Jacobabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and nearby districts.

Karachi is also expected to experience very hot conditions, with temperatures likely to remain between 35°C and 38°C. Night temperatures across much of the country are also expected to stay elevated during the forecast period.

The PMD has advised citizens—particularly children, women, and the elderly—to take precautionary measures, avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10:00 am to 4:00 pm), and maintain adequate hydration.

Farmers have been urged to adjust agricultural activities according to weather conditions and ensure proper care of livestock.

Authorities have also been warned of a possible surge in electricity demand and water consumption, with calls for careful resource use and preparedness to prevent any emergency situations during the heatwave period.