LAHORE: The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued a warning about a severe heatwave expected to affect various districts of Punjab during the Eidul Adha holidays, with temperatures likely to rise far above seasonal averages.
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According to the PDMA, temperatures across most districts are expected to remain 4 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal levels in the coming days. In Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Faisalabad and Sialkot, temperatures may climb up to 42 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, southern and central districts including Multan, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Sargodha and Jhang are likely to experience extremely hot conditions, with temperatures potentially reaching 50 degrees Celsius. Authorities warned that the heat intensity may continue even during nighttime hours.
The PDMA advised citizens to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses during the Eid holidays. People have been urged to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities between 10am and 5pm and to drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated.
Director General PDMA Umar Javed recommended wearing light-coloured cotton clothes and using caps or umbrellas while outdoors to reduce direct exposure to sunlight. He also advised parents and caregivers to keep children and elderly individuals indoors during peak heat hours.
Authorities further instructed travellers to check tyre pressure and radiator water levels before journeys due to the extreme temperatures. Citizens were also urged to use water carefully and place water containers for birds and animals amid the intense heat.
Special precautions were recommended for butchers, cattle traders, sanitation workers and livestock handlers working during Eid days. Livestock owners were advised to frequently provide water to animals and keep them cool to prevent heat stress.
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The PDMA said medical and veterinary camps were being established at cattle markets and public places, while emergency assistance would remain available through the PDMA helpline 1129.