K-P braces for extreme summer heat

Pakistan is bracing for an unusually intense summer in 2026, with authorities warning that large parts of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), including its capital Peshawar, could face severe heatwaves and soaring temperatures in the coming months. Officials at the Pakistan Meteorological Department cautioned that the current year is likely to witness extreme weather patterns, with temperatures expected to rise significantly across the country. They warned that districts across K-P, particularly upper regions as well as urban centres, may experience prolonged spells of intense heat, putting vulnerable populations at greater risk. During the 2025 heatwave in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, extreme temperatures in June led to widespread heat-related emergencies, with Rescue 1122 reporting around 935 affected people, including critical cases of heatstroke and dehydration across the province, especially during peak heat days. Comparative data from January through April indicates an unusual trend: while April saw above-normal rainfall, temperatures also rose sharply, increasing from a moderate 18–20 degrees Celsius to as high as 28–30 degrees Celsius within a short period. Despite alarming forecasts, experts warn of poor preparedness by provincial authorities, noting the absence of a clear response plan and uncertainty over facilitation centres and timely medical care for heatwave emergencies. Dr Hizbullah Khan, a retired professor of environmental sciences at the University of Peshawar, warned that Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change impacts. "The effects of climate change are most pronounced in Pakistan, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, where we are already witnessing increased rainfall and frequent flooding," he said. Dr Khan noted that despite warnings issued by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and other institutions about rising temperatures this year, there has been little visible action on the ground. "Institutions must move beyond alerts and take practical steps," he emphasized, adding that rising temperatures not only trigger heatwaves but can also accelerate glacier melting, increasing the risk of floods and other disasters. He further highlighted the urgent need for improved coordination among key institutions, including disaster management authorities, health departments, and local administrations. Without a unified response, he warned, the province could face compounded risks from heatwaves, water shortages, and climate-induced disasters. When contacted, Muhammad Faheem Khan, Deputy Director at the Pakistan Meteorological Department in Peshawar, confirmed that early warnings have already been issued in parts of the country. "The department has released heatwave alerts for regions including Lahore and Sindh, and similar risks are emerging in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa," said Khan. Khan added that districts such as Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, and Charsadda could experience significant heatwave impacts during April and May. He maintained that the meteorological department is in close coordination with relevant institutions, including the PDMA, to ensure timely dissemination of alerts. "We are actively monitoring the situation and will alert concerned departments in case of any imminent threat," Khan said, stressing that coordinated efforts are essential to minimize potential loss of life and property. Khan also advised people to avoid staying outdoors during extreme heat, emphasizing that awareness and preventive measures can help protect individuals and families from heatwave impacts. The correspondent attempted to obtain a statement from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) regarding the expected heatwave. However, a PDMA spokesperson claimed that, so far, they have not received any heatwave alert from the meteorological department.