PMD Issues Dire Warning as Drought Conditions Worsen Across

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a critical drought warning for Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab, highlighting severe water shortages due to a significant rainfall deficit. With rising temperatures exacerbating the situation, authorities are urged to implement emergency measures to mitigate the impact on agriculture and water resources.

PMD’s Drought Warning

According to official data, from September 1, 2024, to March 21, 2025, Pakistan experienced 40% less rainfall than normal. The highest deficit was recorded in Sindh (62%), followed by Balochistan (52%) and Punjab (38%).

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 35% deficit
• Azad Jammu & Kashmir: 29% deficit

Although recent rains have improved conditions in some areas, southern Sindh, parts of Balochistan, and lower Punjab continue to face severe drought.

Regions Most Affected

The PMD’s National Drought Monitoring and Early Warning Center (NDMC) has classified multiple districts under moderate and mild drought conditions:

Sindh

• Moderate Drought: Paddidan, Shaheed Benazirabad, Dadu, Tharparkar, Umerkot, Khairpur, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Karachi
• Mild Drought: Ghotki, Jacobabad, Larkana, Sukkur, Sanghar

Balochistan

• Moderate Drought: Gwadar, Kech, Lasbela, Panjgur, Awaran
• Deteriorating Conditions: Chagai, Jaffarabad, Jhal Magsi, Sibi, Nushki, Washuk

Punjab

• Mild to Moderate Drought: Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan

Water Scarcity in Major Dams

The PMD has reported alarming water shortages in Pakistan’s major reservoirs:

• Tarbela Dam: Current water level at 1,402 feet (dead level)
• Mangla Dam: Water level at 1,061.75 feet (dead level)
• River Flows: Major rivers experiencing critically low water flow

This scarcity is severely impacting irrigation, drinking water supply, and hydropower generation.

Emerging Flash Droughts

Experts warn that flash droughts, characterized by rapid-onset dry spells, are becoming more frequent due to climate fluctuations. Key concerns include:

• Increased evaporation rates due to high temperatures
• Higher water demand for agriculture
• Depletion of soil moisture, impacting crop yields

Weather Outlook and Future Concerns

The PMD forecasts predominantly dry weather in the coming weeks, with occasional rain expected in:

• Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir: March 26 (rain, wind, thunderstorms)
• Northern Balochistan, upper and southern Punjab: Isolated rain, hailstorms possible

With temperatures 2-3°C above normal, the risk of worsening drought conditions remains high.

Government Response and Mitigation Strategies

Authorities are urged to take the following actions:

• Water Conservation Measures: Implementation of strict water usage policies
• Drought-Resistant Crops: Promotion of agricultural techniques to sustain farming
• Rainwater Harvesting: Infrastructure development for water storage
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating citizens on water conservation

Conclusion

Pakistan faces a worsening drought crisis, particularly in Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab. With reservoirs at critical levels and temperatures rising, immediate action is needed. Government agencies, farmers, and the public must collaborate to conserve water and prepare for potential long-term impacts.

For more updates, visit the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) official website.

Internal Links:

• How Climate Change is Impacting Pakistan
• Top Strategies for Water Conservation

External References:

1. Pakistan Meteorological Department – PMD
2. UN World Water Report