KARACHI – The city sizzled on Sunday in the hottest day of the season as a breakdown of sea breezes combined with relentless hot, dry northwesterly winds pushed the metropolis into near heatwave-like conditions, driving temperatures and discomfort to punishing levels across the city.
Blistering, dry winds swept through Karachi throughout the day, driving temperatures sharply upward and intensifying discomfort. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the city’s official weather station at Old Airport recorded a maximum temperature of 40.9°C, accompanied by 52% humidity — making it feel significantly hotter.
Heat Index Surges
The heat index surged four to five degrees above the actual temperature, making conditions feel as high as 45°C. Among various localities, Gulistan-e-Johar recorded the highest temperature at 42°C, followed by Jinnah Terminal at 41.4°C, Mauripur at 40°C, and Sharae Faisal at 39.5°C.
Not Yet a Formal Heatwave
Despite the extreme conditions, officials clarified that the threshold for a formal heatwave has not been met. Meteorological Department spokesperson and Deputy Director Anjum Nazir Zaigham explained that a heatwave requires a continuous halt in sea breezes for three to five days, temperatures exceeding 40°C, and humidity levels rising above 65% — conditions not fully present on Sunday.
He further noted that while the day was exceptionally hot, it did not break Karachi’s historical May record of 48°C. Typically, the average temperature for May stands at 36°C, making Sunday’s reading nearly five degrees Celsius above normal.
Forecast
Looking ahead, Monday is expected to remain intensely hot and dry, with temperatures potentially climbing to 41°C under the influence of hot northwesterly winds. However, some relief may arrive by evening as sea breezes are likely to resume. From Tuesday onward, temperatures are forecast to ease slightly, ranging between 36°C and 38°C.
Interior Sindh Scorches
Meanwhile, in interior Sindh, Jacobabad recorded a scorching 46°C, marking it as the hottest location in the region for the day.
Analysis: A City Dependent on Sea Breezes
Sunday’s heatwave-like conditions serve as a reminder of Karachi’s unique climate vulnerability. Unlike cities in interior Sindh that experience extreme heat as a matter of course, Karachi is moderated by sea breezes — when they blow. When they stop, the city’s temperature can spike dramatically.
The difference between Gulistan-e-Johar (42°C) and Sharae Faisal (39.5°C) reflects the impact of local geography and urban heat island effects. Densely built-up areas trap heat, while areas closer to the coast remain slightly cooler.
The forecast for Monday — potentially 41°C — is a warning. Citizens should take precautions: stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, and check on vulnerable neighbours.
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves globally. For Karachi, the “silent sea” may become a more common phenomenon. The city must prepare.
