LAHORE: Amid a persistent heatwave sweeping through Punjab, the provincial government has announced an early start to summer vacations and reduced school hours as a safety measure.
According to a notification issued on Tuesday by the Punjab School Education Department, schools will now close for summer break starting May 28, earlier than the initially scheduled June 1. Classes will run from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. until the holidays begin. Schools are set to reopen on August 15.
Similarly, the Punjab Higher Education Department has declared that colleges and universities will also begin their summer holidays on May 28.
The decision comes as the region grapples with soaring temperatures. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported a high of 42°C in Lahore on Tuesday, with the ongoing heatwave expected to persist through the week.
A PMD spokesperson stated that a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere is contributing to the extreme heat, with daytime temperatures forecasted to remain 4–6°C above normal in South Punjab and up to 7°C above normal in central and northern parts of the province until May 24. Occasional dust storms and gusty winds may occur due to the intense heat, particularly in lowland areas.
Residents — especially children, the elderly, and women — have been urged to avoid direct sunlight, stay indoors during peak hours, and remain well-hydrated.
Farmers have been advised to plan their agricultural activities accordingly and to take precautions to protect livestock.
In response to the weather emergency, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a heatwave alert. Punjab Relief Commissioner Nabeel Javed has directed commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to stay vigilant. All relevant departments — including education, health, local government, transport, and Rescue 1122 — have been placed on high alert.
Authorities have warned of a potential further rise in temperatures in the coming days, with the possibility of strong winds and thunderstorms in some areas.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia emphasized that district administrations have been instructed to ensure the availability of clean drinking water in public spaces and the provision of first aid for heatstroke patients in hospitals and through mobile health units.
