On June 21, Karachi is not only experiencing scorching heat but also enjoying the longest day and shortest night of the year. This day marks the summer solstice, a significant event in the Northern Hemisphere when one of Earth’s poles is closest to the sun, resulting in extended daylight and shorter nights.
In Karachi, the sun will shine for a full 13 hours and 41 minutes today, leaving only 10 hours and 19 minutes for the night. In Islamabad, daylight will last for 14 hours and 32 minutes, with the night spanning just 9 hours and 28 minutes. These prolonged daylight hours offer ample opportunity to make the most of the day despite the intense heat.
As temperatures soar, people across Pakistan are seeking ways to stay cool while appreciating the extra sunlight. The summer solstice, occurring twice a year, brings the longest day in June and the shortest day in December to the Northern Hemisphere, while the Southern Hemisphere experiences the reverse.
Following today, the days will gradually become shorter as we approach the autumn equinox on September 22, which will bring nearly equal daylight and nighttime hours. The cycle will continue until December 22, when we will have the shortest day and longest night of the year.
Chief Meteorologist Sardar highlighted the impact of these seasonal changes on our daily lives. For now, residents in Karachi and across Pakistan are making the most of the extended daylight on this longest day of 2024, while also preparing for the gradual shift to shorter days ahead.
Today’s combination of intense heat and extended daylight makes it a remarkable day for Karachi and the entire nation, marking an important point in the annual cycle.
