Heatwave alert: PDMA Punjab issues advisory

LAHORE: With soaring temperatures and a looming heatwave, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Punjab has issued guidelines to relevant departments, urging heightened preparedness for emergency situations. The PDMA expects temperatures across the province to rise by four to seven degrees Celsius this month, with southern Punjab districts particularly vulnerable to extreme heat.

Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia has instructed deputy commissioners to ensure that public spaces are equipped with appropriate heatwave protection measures. In line with this, the Punjab School Education Department has been directed to suspend all outdoor activities for children. In Lahore, educational institutions have been advised to display informational banners at entry points about heatwave safety precautions.

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Farmers are also being cautioned about the potential impact of the heatwave on crops, with PDMA emphasising the need for timely awareness campaigns. The local government department has been asked to ensure the availability of drinking water at public gathering sites.

Veterinary care centres have been instructed to operate round-the-clock, and arrangements for water supply at livestock markets are to be ensured by local administrations. The Health Department has been directed to set up dedicated heatwave counters in hospitals to handle heat-related cases efficiently.

Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel during peak heat hours, stay hydrated, and cover their heads when outdoors to protect themselves from the harsh sun.