Karachi Swelters as Hot, Humid Weather Pushes Temperatures to 39°C

Karachi is experiencing a stretch of hot, humid weather with no rain expected in the near term, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasting highs of 38°C on September 20 and about 39°C on September 21 as temperatures rose after several days of humid weather.

Why the heat index matters more than the thermometer

The heat index — sometimes called the "feels like" temperature — accounts for humidity's effect on the body's ability to cool itself through sweating. In a coastal city like Karachi, humidity levels are typically high year-round, which is why the heat index typically runs above the actual air temperature during stretches like this one. For public health purposes, the heat index is generally the more relevant number, since it better reflects the physiological stress extreme heat places on the body.

Late-September heat isn't unusual, but it isn't harmless either

Karachi typically experiences its hottest stretch during the pre-monsoon months, but late-season heat waves in September — after the monsoon has largely passed — are a recurring feature of the city's climate, particularly in years when monsoon rains have been erratic or reduced in Karachi specifically, even as other parts of the country deal with flooding.

The health risk this represents

Extended heat exposure, especially combined with high humidity, raises the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly for outdoor workers, elderly residents, and anyone without reliable access to cooling. Karachi's frequent power outages compound this risk directly — when grid electricity is unavailable, so is the fan or air conditioning that would otherwise mitigate heat stress, tying this story directly to the load-shedding challenges we've covered separately.

What residents can do

Standard heat-safety guidance applies during periods like this: staying hydrated, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, seeking shade or cooled indoor spaces where possible, and checking on elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may be more susceptible to heat-related illness.

Build Better Pakistan's Climate Desk tracks weather and climate-related public health risk as part of our ongoing coverage.