Early Summer Holidays Requested as Heatwave Hits Pakistan

With an intense heatwave sweeping across Pakistan, a growing number of parents and students are appealing to provincial authorities to declare early summer holidays. Rising temperatures have raised alarm over student safety, with many fearing heatstroke and other health risks linked to prolonged exposure during school hours. The students can get latest information of Heatwave Sparks Public Demand for Early School Holidays in Pakistan.
PMD Forecasts Unusually High Temperatures
The Pakistan Meteorological Department PMD has issued a heatwave advisory, predicting severe weather across much of the country. Southern regions such as Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan could see temperatures rise 4°C to 6°C above average between May 15 and 20 due to a dominating high-pressure system.
Heatwave Grips Northern Regions Too
The scorching conditions are not limited to the south. Central and northern areas—particularly Islamabad, upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir—are also expected to experience significant heat, with PMD forecasting a temperature surge of 5°C to 7°C from May 15 to 19.
School Closure Timeline Under Review
Although the Punjab government has tentatively scheduled school vacations from June 1 to August 9, 2025, this plan may change depending on weather developments. Punjab’s School Education Secretary, Khalid Nazir Wattoo, stated that if the heat intensifies further, authorities may opt to begin holidays earlier to safeguard the well-being of both students and school staff.
Rain May Offer Relief to Northern Zones
In a potential shift, the PMD anticipates the arrival of a westerly weather system by May 19 or 20, which could bring rainfall, thunderstorms, and even hail to northern areas. This system may provide short-term relief for regions such as Kashmir, Islamabad, Pothohar, northeast Punjab, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan.