MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) on Thursday directed authorities to remain alert for severe heatwave conditions, which are likely to prevail in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) from May 25 to May 31.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecasted that high pressure is expected to develop on May 25 and strengthen further from May 26, causing temperatures to rise significantly across various regions.
Under the influence of this system, moderate to severe heatwave conditions are likely to develop over Neelum, Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley, Bagh, Haveli, Poonch, Sudhnoti, Kotli, Mirpur, and Bhimber.
Heatwave advisory
In its heatwave advisory, the SDMA has urged all district disaster management authorities to conduct public awareness campaigns highlighting heatwave risks and precautionary measures.
Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun during the heatwave, while the Health Department has been instructed to establish heatstroke treatment centers equipped with medical staff, basic treatment facilities, and water.
“Departments and educational institutions should take steps to protect children from heatwave impacts,” the SDMA said in its heatwave advisory.
“Orders have been given to ensure the availability of medical staff, medicines, and water in hospitals.”
In addition, Rescue 1122, Fire Brigade, and Forest Department have been directed to keep emergency preparedness complete for fire prevention.
“All DDMAs/Rescue 1122/local administration should ensure the availability of emergency supplies such as first aid kits, ORS, electrolyte drinks, cooling equipment, and water storage,” the advisory added.
SDMA has ordered the activation of control rooms in all districts, and educational institutions have been directed to take measures to protect children from extreme heat. NGOs and community organizations have been asked to join the heatstroke awareness campaign, it added.
