Pakistan is currently grappling with an intense and prolonged heatwave, with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 7°C above normal across much of the country. Some areas have already recorded highs of 49°C, and the scorching conditions are expected to continue through the end of the month. What was once considered extreme weather is now becoming a recurring reality, fueled by the accelerating effects of climate change. Yet, despite frequent warnings from scientists and global institutions, the country remains dangerously underprepared.
The impact of the heatwave is widespread and deeply concerning. Agriculture, the cornerstone of Pakistan’s economy, is being devastated by excessive heat and worsening water shortages. Reports of early wheat crop failures have emerged, threatening food security and pushing already vulnerable rural communities into deeper distress.
Water resources are also under severe strain. Rapid snowmelt in the northern regions, driven by high temperatures, increases the risk of flash floods while undermining water availability for the coming summer months — a period critical for both agriculture and daily living.
Public health systems are buckling under the pressure. Hospitals are seeing a surge in heat-related illnesses, particularly among outdoor workers, the elderly, and children. The 2015 Karachi heatwave, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths, remains a stark reminder of the dangers of inaction. Simultaneously, power outages across the country highlight the fragility of Pakistan’s energy infrastructure at a time when reliable electricity is vital for survival.
Immediate government intervention is essential. As the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has emphasized, cooling centers must be quickly established in high-risk areas, both urban and rural. Water usage must be carefully managed and prioritized for critical needs, and working hours for outdoor laborers should be adjusted to reduce exposure. Healthcare facilities must be equipped to handle heat-related emergencies, and electricity supply must be ensured for hospitals and essential water services.
However, short-term measures alone are not enough. Pakistan urgently needs a long-term strategy to adapt to its warming climate. This should include investments in water storage and management infrastructure, promotion of heat- and drought-resilient crops, widespread adoption of efficient irrigation techniques, and the expansion of green spaces in urban centers to mitigate heat absorption. Additionally, early warning systems and local disaster response capabilities must be strengthened to enable swift and effective action.
This heatwave is not just another seasonal hardship — it is a clear signal of the growing threat climate change poses to Pakistan. Without decisive action, these extreme weather events will become even more devastating. Policymakers must recognize this as a national emergency. The cost of inaction will be measured in lost lives, damaged livelihoods, and an increasingly fragile future. As the temperature rises, so must Pakistan’s resolve to build true climate resilience — not through piecemeal efforts, but through bold, coordinated, and sustained action.
