Temperatures in Pakistan’s southern province of Sindh exceeded 52 degrees Celsius (125.6 degrees Fahrenheit), marking the highest reading of the summer and approaching the country’s record high during the ongoing heatwave, as reported by the met office on Monday.
A group of international scientists suggested that the extreme temperatures witnessed across Asia in the past month were likely exacerbated by human-induced climate change.
In Mohenjo Daro, a town renowned for its ancient archaeological sites dating back to the 2500 BC Indus Valley Civilization, temperatures soared to 52.2°C (126°F) within the last 24 hours, revealed Shahid Abbas, a senior official of the Pakistan Meteorological Department, to Reuters. This reading stands as the highest so far this summer, nearing the town's and country's record highs of 53.5°C (128.3°F) and 54°C (129.2°F), respectively.
Mohenjo Daro experiences scorching summers, mild winters, and scant rainfall. Despite its limited market activity encompassing bakeries, tea shops, repair facilities, and produce vendors, the shops are now witnessing a drastic decline in foot traffic due to the prevailing heatwave.
Wajid Ali, a 32-year-old tea stall owner, lamented the absence of patrons at his establishment, attributing it to the extreme heat. He expressed his discomfort due to the lack of customers and the scorching temperatures, leading to idle days at the restaurant. Additionally, Abdul Khaliq, 30, who operates an electronic repairs shop nearby, echoed the sentiment of diminished business prospects owing to the oppressive heat.
Local doctor Mushtaq Ahmed highlighted how the residents have adapted to endure such extreme weather by opting to stay indoors or in proximity to water bodies.
Rubina Khursheed Alam, the prime minister’s climate coordinator, underscored Pakistan's vulnerability to the impact of climate change, citing instances of abnormal rainfall and floods. She emphasized that the government is actively conducting awareness campaigns in response to the heatwaves.
Pakistan’s highest recorded temperature dates back to 2017, reaching 54°C (129.2°F) in Turbat, situated in the Southwestern province of Balochistan. This made it the second hottest temperature in Asia and the fourth highest globally, according to Sardar Sarfaraz, Chief Meteorologist at the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
Although the heatwave is anticipated to relent in Mohenjo Daro and its environs, a subsequent spell is projected to affect other regions in Sindh, including Karachi, the nation’s largest city.
