PMD issues drought alert over rainfall shortage

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a drought alert, warning of worsening conditions due to below-normal rainfall and rising temperatures across the country.

According to the PMD, rainfall from September 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, was 40 per cent below average. Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab have been hit hardest, recording deficits of 52 per cent, 45 per cent, and 42 per cent, respectively. Rain-fed areas are particularly vulnerable to the ongoing drought.

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In Punjab, mild drought conditions have emerged in districts such as Attock, Chakwal, Rawalpindi, Bhakkar, Multan, and Dera Ghazi Khan. Sindh faces similar challenges in Ghotki, Sukkur, Larkana, Karachi, and Tharparkar, while Balochistan is affected in Ormara, Kharan, Turbat, and Panjgur, among others.

The PMD predicts the drought will worsen in the coming months due to limited rainfall and higher-than-normal temperatures, potentially escalating into moderate drought in some regions.

Farmers and stakeholders have been urged to take pre-emptive measures to reduce the impact of the drought. The PMD advises farmers to stay informed through its official website for guidance on managing the crisis effectively.