Why is there a heatwave in South Asia?
As of June 5, 2026, a prolonged heatwave is affecting South Asia, driven by strong high-pressure systems that trap hot air near the surface. Temperatures in India, Pakistan and Afghanistan have soared well above seasonal averages, with some areas approaching or exceeding 45-50 degrees Celsius (113-122 degrees Fahrenheit) (1).
The heat arrived earlier than the typical May-June season. High-pressure systems dominate, trapping hot air near the surface like a dome, preventing it from rising and cooling, while sinking air compresses, warms, and blocks clouds, allowing relentless solar heating (2).
Climate scientists say meteorological conditions are up to 4°C warmer than in the past, mostly ascribing the increased heat to human-driven climate change.
Which cities or areas are affected by the heatwave?
Several major cities across South Asia are experiencing extreme heat during this heatwave event, some of the affected include:
- India: Aheri, Ahmedabad, Barmer, Bikaner, Delhi, Nagpur, Nanded, Prayagraj, Raipur, Sambalpur and Vijayawada.
- Pakistan: Bahawalpur, Dadu, Dalbandin, Dera Ismail Khan, Hyderabad, Layyah, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sahiwal, Sibi, Sukkur and Turbat.
- Afghanistan: Farah, Kandahar Lashkar Gah and Mirabad.
How long will the heatwave last?
The heatwave began in early April 2026 and is expected to persist through the summer months across parts of South Asia.
Forecasts for India and Pakistan indicate above-normal heatwave activity through the April–June period, while Afghanistan is also expected to experience prolonged extreme heat, particularly in southern regions where temperatures commonly reach 36–43°C (97–109°F) (3).
Temperatures above 100°F (38°C) are likely to continue across much of the region until seasonal monsoon rainfall brings gradual relief later in the summer.
It is possible that a strong El Niño projected for this summer may also contribute to more intense, longer-lasting heat waves and dry weather in South Asia (4).
Are there any alerts in place?
Multiple heat alerts are active across South Asia. Several regions in India were placed under orange alert for heatwave conditions, with authorities warning of increased heat-related illnesses and directing hospitals and livestock services to prepare accordingly (5).
In Pakistan, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warned that heatwave conditions are expected to persist and advised residents to avoid direct sunlight and stay hydrated.
Both countries have Heat Action Plans coordinated through disaster management authorities (6).
Afghanistan's extreme summer heat typically affects outdoor workers and vulnerable populations, though formal heat-specific alert systems are limited compared to neighboring countries.
Residents are advised to stay in air-conditioned spaces, avoid direct sun exposure, drink fluids, and check on elderly individuals. Outdoor workers should reschedule activities to cooler hours.
