Karachi and other districts across Pakistan are facing escalating drought-like conditions, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) issuing a fresh advisory on the growing water scarcity crisis.
The PMD warned that rainfall deficits, coupled with above-normal temperatures, could worsen drought conditions in several regions, including Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan, through the first quarter of 2025.
The latest report indicates a significant rainfall shortfall of 40 percent nationwide from September 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, with some provinces hit harder.
Sindh experienced a 52 percent deficit, while Balochistan and Punjab saw shortfalls of 45 percent and 42 percent, respectively.
Karachi, along with other districts in Sindh, is among the hardest-hit areas, with widespread drought-like conditions impacting the region.
In addition to Karachi, areas like Ghotki, Jacobabad, and Larkana are facing severe dry spells.
The PMD’s warning also highlights drought conditions in Punjab’s Potohar region and several southern and central districts, including Multan, Bahawalnagar, and Faisalabad.
Balochistan’s districts of Ormara, Turbat, and Kech are also struggling with water shortages.
Without significant rainfall expected in the coming months, the drought situation is anticipated to worsen, particularly as temperatures rise in January through March 2025, potentially leading to flash droughts.
The PMD’s National Drought Monitoring and Early Warning Centre (NDMC) is actively monitoring the situation, urging authorities and farmers to take precautionary actions to mitigate the impact on agriculture and water resources timely.
