Islamabad (Web Desk): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a cautionary advisory regarding the escalation of drought conditions across various regions of the country, attributed to prolonged periods of below-average precipitation coupled with elevated temperatures.
Data from September 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025, reveals a substantial rainfall deficiency of approximately 40% nationwide.
The provinces of Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab are particularly affected, with recorded deficits of 52%, 45%, and 42%, respectively.
These deficiencies are notably exacerbating water scarcity, especially in rain-dependent agricultural zones.
In Punjab, areas such as Attock, Chakwal, and Sargodha have reported initial signs of drought stress, characterized by reduced soil moisture and water supply issues.
Sindh and Balochistan are also witnessing similar developments, with regions including Sukkur, Larkana, and Turbat experiencing prolonged dry spells that further compound agricultural challenges.
The PMD has raised concerns that these conditions are expected to worsen over the coming months, as forecasts suggest persistent low rainfall and above-normal temperatures, which may lead to the intensification of drought severity.
Some areas may experience the emergence of flash droughts, marked by rapid onset and significant impacts on agricultural yields and water resources.
The PMD t has strongly recommended that farmers and other relevant stakeholders initiate mitigation strategies, including the efficient use of water resources and the adoption of drought-resistant crops.
Additionally, the PMD emphasizes the importance of staying informed through official communication channels to ensure appropriate adaptive measures are taken to alleviate the adverse effects of the ongoing drought crisis.
