The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has suggested either altering the working hours of schools or announcing early summer vacations if the prevailing heatwave-conditions persist.
In a notification to educational institutions and district administrations, the PDMA noted that forecasts indicated temperature surges of 4-7 degrees Celsius above normal in the coming weeks. It urged all educational institutions to take immediate measures to protect students and staff from the extreme heat.
According to the advisory, schools have been advised to suspend all outdoor sports and activities; ensure uninterrupted availability of clean, cold drinking water; and maintain functional ventilation, fans, and cooling systems. Additionally, it has advised that students wear loose, light-color clothing and that schools establish first aid counters with staff trained in heat-related emergencies.
The advisory followed a meeting between the PDMA and the Environment Department. During the meeting, the PDMA director-general warned that Punjab was facing heatwave-liked conditions, raising the likelihood of heat strokes and dehydration.
According to the Met Office, Lahore’s minimum temperature has already reached 23°C, while the maximum may exceed 40°C next week.