Lahore braces for heat, advisory issued for schools

LAHORE: Rising temperatures in Lahore have prompted the Punjab School Education Department to issue an urgent heat advisory for both private and government schools.

The city is expected to record a maximum temperature of 37°C today, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department. Early in the morning, the temperature was recorded at 29°C.

Winds are currently blowing at a speed of 10 km/h, offering little relief from the heat, according to the Met Office.

Lahore also continues to face severe air pollution, ranking fourth among the most polluted cities in the world today. The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 162, which falls in the “unhealthy” category.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned about the worsening air quality in Lahore, urging urgent steps to tackle smog and pollution.

HEAT ADVISORY FOR LAHORE SCHOOLS

As the heatwave worsens across the region, the School Education Department has issued a fresh advisory to all educational institutions, stressing the need to create safe and comfortable environments for students.

According to the advisory, the schools in Lahore have been directed to take immediate steps to protect students’ health during extreme heat. The advisory calls for ensuring the availability of clean and cold drinking water in all classrooms. Students should be encouraged to drink 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.

“Access to clean, cool water is crucial as temperatures continue to rise. Schools must ensure regular hydration throughout the day,” a department spokesperson said.

The advisory also called for classes to be held in well-ventilated spaces. Schools have been asked to use fans and air coolers to maintain airflow and support a healthy learning atmosphere.

To prevent heat-related health risks, schools are instructed to keep students indoors during peak heat hours and to avoid outdoor activities. “Minimise time spent outside and keep students inside during extreme temperatures,” the spokesperson added.

Recognising the dangers of heatstroke, the department has urged schools to raise awareness among both students and staff about its symptoms and prevention. Schools are also required to keep first-aid kits on campus and ensure that staff receive emergency response training.

“Heatstroke can become life-threatening if not treated in time. It is vital that teachers and staff are trained to respond quickly and provide care when needed,” the spokesperson emphasised.

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