A severe heatwave gripped Karachi on Monday, pushing temperatures to 44.1 degrees Celsius and leaving at least nine people dead from suspected heatstroke, rescue officials said.

The city recorded its hottest day of the year, with the Meteorological Department warning that the intensity of the heat could rise further due to the cessation of sea breezes and hot winds blowing from Balochistan.

According to rescue and intelligence sources, nine bodies were recovered from various parts of the city, including Clifton, Liaquatabad, Super Highway and Baldia. The victims are suspected to have died from heatstroke.

Separately, a worshipper died while offering prayers at the Osmania Mosque in North Karachi, with the cause of death also believed to be heatstroke.

The extreme heat and humidity disrupted normal life, with lighter-than-usual traffic on roads as residents tried to avoid exposure to the scorching sun. Many were seen covering their heads to protect themselves from the heat.

Medical experts advised citizens to avoid unnecessary outdoor movement, particularly during the afternoon, and to increase water intake. They warned that the “feels-like” temperature could reach as high as 50 degrees Celsius.

Rescue officials said the process of identifying several bodies was ongoing and that the deceased had been shifted to cold storage facilities after initial procedures.

Authorities said the heatwave has created a situation of extreme discomfort across the city, raising concerns about further casualties if conditions persist.