The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide alert regarding an intense heatwave expected to impact major parts of the country through May 5.

This warning, released via the National Emergencies Operation Centre (NEOC), coincides with a forecast for rain, windstorms and thunderstorms in various parts of the country between April 24 and 29.

According to the NDMA, this weather pattern aligns with the seasonal outlook issued earlier this year. The authority noted that a detailed assessment for the April-June period has already been disseminated to relevant departments.

The advisory identifies Sindh, southern Punjab and parts of Balochistan as the areas most likely to face severe heat.

Residents in Karachi, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Jacobabad, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Multan and Turbat should prepare for extreme temperatures, the body said, adding that central Punjab and portions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) must also prepare for a potential sharp rise in heat.

Simultaneously, a separate weather system is expected to bring dust storms and rain to Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad and Sargodha on April 24, 25, and 29.

In Balochistan, northern districts like Quetta and Ziarat are expected to receive rain and strong winds during the same period, while coastal areas like Gwadar will remain hot and dry.

While Sindh is expected to stay dry overall, Hyderabad, Badin and Mithi may see light rain and gusty winds on April 24.

Intermittent rain and thunderstorms are also predicted for KP, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir through April 29.

The NDMA warned that the heatwave significantly increases risks of heatstroke and dehydration. Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, drink plenty of water and take precautionary measures, the authority said.

In response to these conditions, the NDMA has directed departments to activate heatwave response plans, establish cooling centres, and place hospitals on high alert.

Provincial and district administrations have also been instructed to remain vigilant to manage potential emergencies.

The authority has urged both officials and the public to take precautionary steps to mitigate the impact of the dual weather threats.