Karachiites, get ready, as the Meteorological Department has predicted intense heat in Karachi. According to the Metrological Department forecast, the temperature is likely to increase by one to two degrees during the day today as the maximum temperature is likely to reach 38 degrees Celsius. The intensity of heat can be felt up to 41 degrees Celsius, the Meteorological Department said. The weather will remain extremely hot and humid during the next 24 hours, while the weather is currently clear in the city. The current temperature is 29 degrees Celsius, and the wind is blowing from the west at a speed of 16 kilometres per hour. On the other hand, the intensity of heat has started increasing in Lahore city as the meteorological department forecast that the temperature is likely to reach 34 degrees Celsius today. The current temperature of the city is being felt at 27-28. The city is also ranked third in terms of air pollution, with an overall rate of 149. Residents, particularly children, women and the elderly people are advised to take precautions during the heatwave by avoiding unnecessary outdoor activities in the sun and staying hydrated to protect themselves from heat-related health risks. Talking to media channels on Sunday, officials of Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and weather experts with media channels advised the public to remain cautious during the heatwave, recommending precautions such as avoiding peak sun exposure and staying hydrated to minimize the risk of heat-related illnesses. The Director General PDMA warned that the heatwave would persist even at night, increasing the likelihood of dust-laden winds and storms. To stay safe, the residents are advised to take extra precautions: wear loose, light-colored clothing, use sunscreen and don hats when venturing outside. The citizens should also avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours, stay in shaded areas and keep homes cool, the DG added. Additionally, checking on vulnerable neighbors, keeping pets hydrated and never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles can help prevent heat-related emergencies. According to a weather expert Dr. Ghulam Rasul, farmers are urged to implement protective measures for their crops and livestock to minimize damage from the heatwave. Rescue 1122 has been put on high alert to provide immediate assistance to individuals affected by heat strokes and mobile health teams will be deployed to handle heat-related emergencies. According to Director of the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the rising temperatures may accelerate the melting of ice in northern regions. The heatwave has brought street vendors to the city roads, offering refreshing treats like sugarcane juice, falooda, kulfi, ice-creams and chilled drinks to motorists and pedestrians seeking relief from the sweltering temperatures. According to media channel reports, sales are brisk as people flock to beat the heat, with some vendors reporting a significant surge in demand. “Business has doubled since the heatwave started,” says one vendor, smiling as he hands over a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice to a thirsty customer. “Nothing beats the heat like a cold ice cream cone it is pure bliss!” a satisfied customer remarks. Vendors are thrilled with the surge in demand, with some reporting doubled sales since the heatwave started. The streets are filled with the sounds of vendors calling out and the happy chatter of people enjoying their cooling treats. Report added that the uptick in ice cream sales is a welcome sign for vendors, who rely on the summer season to boost their business. “Summer’s not summer without ice cream,” a customer says, enjoying every bite of their frozen treat. Street vendors selling fresh summer drinks like nimbu pani, gulkand juice, and chilled lassi are a common sight near big office buildings. “Fresh nimbu pani, stay cool and hydrated!” a vendor calls out to office workers rushing to beat the heat. A worker in Islamabad remarks, “I have just started noticing a great trend here in the city where fresh fruit juice vendors are popping up everywhere during summer, and it is amazing! The variety of juices they offer is incredible, from orange and mango to watermelon and pineapple. It is not just refreshing, but also healthy. I am loving this new trend, it’s perfect for beating the heat in our busy city lives,” he added. Near schools, ice cream vendors are beaming with joy as they sell cool treats to excited kids. “Ice cream, ice cream!” they call out, as students eagerly line up with their pocket money. One vendor smiles, “School’s out and our sales are in! It is a win-win for us and the kids. Imli Pani’ s popularity also soars during the summer months, providing relief from the scorching heat. Its tangy flavor and cooling properties make it a favorite among locals, said a citizen.