The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a high-alert notification, warning of an unprecedented heatwave set to impact the region from 29 April to 12 May 2026. With forecasting suggesting extreme temperatures between 45°C and 55°C, accompanied by cumulus clouds that trap heat near the surface, the risks to public health have reached a critical level.
In this environment, “thermal stress” is not just a phrase; it is a physiological reality. When temperatures exceed the human body’s ability to cool itself, the results can be fatal. This comprehensive guide, supported by Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services (SIEHS), provides the technical knowledge and practical steps needed to navigate this extreme weather event safely.
The window between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM represents the peak danger period for heatstroke. During these hours, the combination of maximum solar radiation and soaring ambient temperatures places an extreme thermal load on the body. This environment rapidly pushes core temperatures toward dangerous levels, often exceeding the body’s natural thermoregulation capacities.
Why the “Peak” Matters
During these hours, the sun is at its highest point, meaning UV radiation is at its strongest. In Sindh, where humidity can also play a factor, the “feels like” temperature often exceeds the actual recorded temperature. If you are outdoors, you are not just fighting the air temperature; you are absorbing direct radiant heat from the sun and reflected heat from pavements and buildings.
1. Avoid Direct Exposure
The most effective way to prevent heat illness is to stay indoors. If your home is not air-conditioned, seek out “cool zones” such as shaded community centres or well-ventilated lower floors of buildings. Avoid going outdoors or under the open sky during peak hours unless absolutely necessary.
2. Hydration Strategy
Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink. Thirst is often a late-stage indicator of dehydration.
3. Dress for the Climate
Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-coloured cotton clothing. Synthetic fabrics like polyester trap heat against the skin, whereas cotton allows for better evaporation of sweat—the body’s primary cooling mechanism.
4. Recognise Emergency Symptoms
Vigilance is your first line of defence. If you or someone near you experiences breathing difficulty, dizziness, a sudden high body temperature (above 103°F/39.4°C), or loss of consciousness, you must seek medical attention immediately.
High ambient temperatures combined with direct sunlight can turn a parked car into a furnace. Within just 20 minutes, a car parked in 45°C heat can reach internal temperatures of over 70°C. To prevent accidents or vehicle fires, follow these mandatory safety guidelines:
Removal of Hazardous Items
Operational Adjustments
While the heatwave affects everyone, certain groups are at a much higher risk of morbidity.
The Elderly and Children
Children under four and adults over 65 have a harder time regulating body temperature. For the elderly, underlying conditions like heart disease can make the heart work harder to pump blood to the skin for cooling. For children, the surface-area-to-mass ratio means they absorb heat faster than adults.
Outdoor Workers
Labourers, delivery riders, and traffic police are on the front lines. It is vital to implement a “buddy system” where workers monitor each other for signs of confusion or lethargy—common early signs of heat exhaustion.
In the event of a medical emergency, the Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services (SIEHS) is on the front line to provide rapid pre-hospital medical care. As the premier free emergency ambulance service in Sindh – SIEHS 1122, the organization is fully equipped to handle heat-related illnesses across the province.
24/7 Emergency Ambulance Response
If you encounter a heatstroke victim or someone suffering from respiratory distress, dial 1122. Our emergency medical technicians are trained to stabilize patients using advanced life-support systems while en route to the hospital. Whether you need an ambulance service in Karachi or an emergency ambulance in Hyderabad, SIEHS ensures emergency ambulance coverage across Sindh, including rural areas like Sukkur, Larkana, Mirpurkhas, Tharparkar, Nawabshah, and Dadu.
Tele Tabeeb 1123 & Digital Guidance
Sometimes you may feel unwell but are unsure whether you need to go to hospital. The Tele Tabeeb 1123 telemedicine service offers a 24-hour telemedicine platform where you can speak to qualified doctors for a preliminary diagnosis. This helps reduce the burden on hospital emergency rooms while ensuring you get the right advice at the right time.
For real-time updates and visual guides, we encourage citizens to check SIEHS social media platforms regularly for the latest heatwave guidance. Additionally, the HOPE 24/7 portal features a dedicated First Aid section with practical tips on managing heat exhaustion and other common emergencies at home.
The heatwave can exacerbate underlying conditions or trigger sudden crises. Be vigilant for:
If you encounter someone showing signs of heatstroke before the SIEHS 1122 team arrives, take these immediate steps:
This high alert is a matter of public safety. We urge all citizens to remain vigilant and share this advisory with staff, family, and the public. Emergency health services in Sindh are prepared, but prevention remains the best form of protection.
The strength of Sindh lies in its community. Check on your neighbours, especially those living alone. Ensure that outdoor animals have access to shade and plenty of water. By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources provided by Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services (SIEHS), we can minimize the impact of this extreme weather event.
WhatsApp us
