As Karachi residents continue to battle extreme heat and humidity, the city recorded five more heatstroke-related deaths at various hospitals. The maximum temperature reached 39°C with 49% relative humidity. Despite forecasts of rain, the city only experienced hot winds with no significant relief.
The Meteorological Department explained that the weather system responsible for the light rain had moved away, reducing the chances of further precipitation. However, there is still a possibility of thunderstorms in the coming days.
With a total of 45 reported deaths in a week due to heatstroke, hospitals are seeing a decline in new cases. Co-morbidity has been identified as a significant risk factor for mortality in heatstroke patients. The public is urged to take precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Despite the alarming number of deaths, non-profit organizations have reported a much higher mortality rate, indicating that the actual figures may be much greater. The government is urged to address and prioritize this public health crisis.
Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2024