Pakistan is facing the early stages of a drought due to a significant decrease in rainfall over the past five and a half months.
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), national rainfall dropped by 40% from September 1 to January 15, triggering drought conditions in several provinces, particularly Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan.
Read more: Below-Normal Rainfall Expected This Winter, Says PMD
The rainfall deficit has been especially severe in some areas, with Sindh experiencing a 52% reduction, Balochistan seeing a 45% decline, and Punjab enduring a 42% shortfall. These deficits have led to mild drought conditions, and experts warn that the situation may worsen if the trend continues.
In Punjab, regions like Potohar, Layyah, Bhakkar, and Multan have started to show signs of drought. The PMD forecasts little chance of significant rainfall, worsening the drought risk.
Sindh’s major districts, including Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, and others, are also witnessing drought conditions, as are cities like Karachi, Thatta, Badin, and Hyderabad. Balochistan’s regions, such as Ormara, Kharan, Turbat, Kech, and Panjgur, are also facing early drought stages.
With rising temperatures, experts warn that the situation could deteriorate further, causing long-term impacts on agriculture and water availability. The PMD has expressed concern that the dry spell may exacerbate the crisis in the coming months.
