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The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a drought alert as the country experiences 40 percent below-normal rainfall, posing serious concerns for water shortages and rising temperatures.
Between September 1, 2024, and March 21, 2025, the decline has affected all regions, with Sindh and Balochistan facing the worst impact. Sindh saw a 62 percent drop, while Balochistan recorded a 52 percent decrease.
Other provinces also witnessed a significant reduction, including Punjab (38 percent), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (35 percent), and Azad Kashmir (29 percent).
Even Gilgit-Baltistan, which usually receives consistent rainfall, experienced a 2 percent decline.
Recent rainfall has slightly improved conditions in central and upper regions, but drought persists in southern Sindh, Balochistan, and eastern Punjab.
Authorities warn of a severe water shortage in Tarbela and Mangla dams, with March temperatures in southern areas rising 2-3°C above normal. Additionally, some southern regions have faced over 200 consecutive dry days, raising concerns that the drought situation may worsen further.
