2015 Pakistani heat wave

The 2015 Pakistani heat wave was a severe weather event that affected the southern parts of Pakistan, particularly the province of Sindh, in June 2015. The heat wave resulted in over 2,000 deaths, with the majority of fatalities occurring in the city of Karachi.

Background

The heat wave struck during the holy month of Ramadan, when many Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. This exacerbated the effects of the extreme temperatures, as people were unable to drink water during daylight hours. The heat wave coincided with power outages, which hindered the ability of residents to cool themselves using fans or air conditioning.

Meteorological Conditions

The heat wave was characterized by temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F) in many areas. The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that the heat wave was caused by a low-pressure system that trapped hot air over the region. The lack of sea breeze, which usually provides some relief to coastal areas like Karachi, further intensified the heat.

Impact

The impact of the heat wave was devastating, particularly in urban areas where the "urban heat island" effect made temperatures feel even hotter. Hospitals in Karachi were overwhelmed with patients suffering from heatstroke and dehydration. The Edhi Foundation, a major humanitarian organization in Pakistan, reported that their morgues were filled to capacity.

Response

The government of Sindh declared a state of emergency in hospitals and set up heatstroke relief centers across Karachi. The Pakistan Army was also deployed to assist in relief efforts. Despite these measures, the response was criticized for being slow and inadequate.

Long-term Effects

The 2015 heat wave highlighted the vulnerability of Pakistan to extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent due to climate change. It prompted discussions on improving urban planning, increasing green spaces, and enhancing the resilience of infrastructure to withstand such events.

Also see

• Climate of Pakistan
• Heat wave
• 2010 Pakistan floods
• Climate change in Pakistan

2015 Pakistani heat wave