By WEB DESK: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has released its monthly forecast for May, indicating a looming heatwave threat for the province of Punjab.
According to the PMD, Punjab is bracing for a heatwave anticipated to strike from May 12th onwards, with temperatures forecasted to surge beyond 40 degrees Celsius. The department’s monthly report highlights atmospheric conditions conducive to the formation of heatwaves, particularly in the flatlands of the southern region of the country.
In line with this forecast, the PMD also highlighted the persistence of a neutral phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and a positive phase of the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) for the upcoming month of May.
Read More: PTA Responds to FBR’s Decision to Block SIMs of Non-Filers
While near-normal rainfall is anticipated in most regions, certain areas like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, northern Balochistan, northern Punjab, and Azad Kashmir may witness slightly above normal rainfall. Daytime maximum temperatures are expected to be slightly above normal in northern and southern parts, while central areas, including most of Punjab and southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, may experience normal to slightly below normal temperatures.
Furthermore, the PMD also warned of warmer than normal minimum temperatures across the country, particularly in northern KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. With the likelihood of heatwave development, especially in the plain areas of the southern half of Pakistan, precautions are advised.
While above-normal precipitation in May could benefit agriculture, measures should be taken to safeguard standing wheat crops during harvesting from potential damage by hailstorms and windstorms in certain regions.
Moreover, the anticipated rise in temperatures in high-altitude regions is expected to accelerate snowmelt in northern areas, providing opportunities for irrigation and power generation.
1 Comment