Karachi records hottest July night

KARACHI: In a scorching heatwave that has left residents reeling, Karachi has witnessed its hottest night on record in July, with the minimum temperature reaching a sweltering 32 degrees Celsius .

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported that the previous highest nighttime temperatures in July were recorded in 2021 and 2022, at 31°C. However, the current heatwave has shattered these records, leaving Karachi citizens struggling to cope with the intense heat and high humidity.
The PMD has predicted that temperatures will remain around 27.9°C in the month of July, but the respite from the scorching heat may come sooner than expected.

After several days of extreme heat, the Met Office has forecast the restoration of the sea breeze in the port city from Monday. According to the PMD, sea winds are blowing at a speed of 18 km per hour in the city, and the humidity in the air is 70 per cent.

Monsoon system

The southwesterly sea breeze, which used to keep the weather bearable in the city, has finally restored, bringing hope to the citizens. “With the revival of sea winds, temperatures are likely to drop in the city, and citizens will find some respite from the scorching heat,” the Met Office said.

Meanwhile, the PMD has predicted the first monsoon spell to hit Karachi from July 5, bringing much-needed relief to the city. On Sunday, the highest temperature in the country was recorded at 47 degrees Celsius in Sibi and Nokundi, with most of the plains still experiencing hot weather. Rain has also been predicted in Tharparkar and Umerkot of Sindh.

The current heatwave has raised concerns about the impact of climate change on the region. As temperatures continue to rise, cities like Karachi are facing unprecedented challenges in terms of heat management and public health.