Punjab temperatures reach 50 deg C mark as Pakistan battles severe heatwave

The extreme conditions are part of an ongoing heatwave which is likely to persist until June 13.

A severe heatwave has gripped Pakistan's Punjab province, with temperatures soaring up to 50 degrees Celsius in some districts, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) said on Wednesday.

Ansar Abbas, 32, cools watermelons in the Upper Chenab Canal to sell during a heatwave in Sialkot, Pakistan(REUTERS)

The heatwave in Pakistan is expected to continue for the next 48 to 72 hours.

Bhakkar, Noorpur Thal, Gujra­nwala, Hafizabad, Layyah and Mandi Bahauddin experienced extreme temperatures ranging between 48 deg C and 49 deg C on Tuesday and Wednesday. In Lahore, the mercury touched 45°C on Wednesday.

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The extreme conditions are part of an ongoing heatwave which is likely to persist until June 13, with temperatures remaining 5 to 7 degrees Celsius above normal across the region, officials said.

The Punjab government has issued warnings to residents to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and ensure the safety of vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Residents are advised to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing.