Severe Heatwave Triggers Demand for Early School Holidays in Pakistan
May 16, 2025 — Pakistan: With temperatures soaring across the country, many parents and students are urging provincial governments to start summer vacations earlier than planned.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a heatwave alert, warning of a major temperature rise in southern, central, and northern parts of the country.
Where Is It Hottest?
According to the PMD:
- Sindh, southern Punjab, and Balochistan may experience temperatures 4°C to 6°C above normal from May 15 to 20.
- Islamabad, upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan could see a 5°C to 7°C rise between May 15 and 19.
Public Demands Early Break
Many parents have taken to social media and contacted school authorities, asking for an earlier start to the summer break, fearing the health risks posed by the extreme heat.
Current Summer Vacation Plan
As of now, the Punjab government plans to begin summer vacations from June 1 to August 9, 2025, for all public and private schools and colleges.
However, Punjab Secretary of School Education Khalid Nazir Wattoo stated that the schedule could be adjusted:
“If heat levels become unusually high, vacations may begin a week earlier. The health and safety of students and staff come first.”
Possible Weather Relief Ahead
The PMD has also shared a bit of good news. A westerly weather system is expected around May 19 or 20, which could bring rain, thunderstorms, and hail to Kashmir, Islamabad, northeast Punjab, upper KP, and Gilgit-Baltistan — possibly offering some relief from the heat.
✅ Stay updated on official announcements. Stay hydrated, stay safe!