KARACHI: At least eight people died in the port city on Monday, with rescue officials linking several of the deaths to the ongoing heatwave as temperatures soared to extreme levels.

According to officials, four bodies were recovered from different areas, including Manghopir, Gulshan-e-Hadeed, Boat Basin and Suparco Road, while four others died after being shifted to hospitals from Liaquatabad, Jamali Bridge, Surjani Town and Defence Phase 8.

Rescue authorities said some of the deceased were drug addicts, while others appeared to have succumbed to heat-related causes amid the intense weather conditions.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) confirmed that Karachi recorded its hottest day of the year, with the mercury reaching 44.1 degrees Celsius.

The Met Office warned that hot and humid conditions are likely to persist, with temperatures expected to hover around 39°C in the coming days. While sea breezes may continue, high humidity levels are expected to intensify the “feel of heat” across the city.

Medical experts have urged residents to take precautionary measures, including limiting outdoor activities during peak hours between 11am and 3pm, staying hydrated, and avoiding direct sun exposure.

They also advised avoiding unhygienic food and drinks, consuming boiled water, and wearing light, loose clothing while covering the head when outdoors.

The fatalities highlight the growing impact of extreme weather conditions on vulnerable populations as the heatwave continues to grip Karachi.