Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)’s most recent Drought Monitor report indicates that substantial portions of southern Pakistan are currently experiencing severe to extreme drought conditions.
The provinces of Sindh and Balochistan are particularly vulnerable to the situation, which is exacerbated by the persistent lack of rainfall and the warming temperatures.
The National Drought Monitoring & Early Warning Centre (NDMC) of the PMD has issued a warning regarding an imminent flash drought, citing long-term rainfall deficits and increased temperatures in the months ahead.
Water levels in significant reservoirs, such as the Tarbela and Mangla dams, are also being closely monitored, as shortages could contribute to the crisis.
In order to reduce the likelihood of agricultural losses, authorities are encouraging stakeholders, particularly farmers and agriculturists, to implement immediate precautionary measures. The PMD has recommended that all parties involved remain informed about official weather reports.It is imperative that all parties involved remain informed about the most recent official weather reports.
Balochistan, an arid region with no major river flowing through it, depends on supply from the Indus River to irrigate land in many areas.
Quetta’s water table is now dropping by 3 to 5 feet annually. The city faces severe water shortages due to rapid urbanisation, population growth, and groundwater depletion. Groundwater levels have dropped significantly, with an average depletion of 300 feet from 2010 to 2021. Quetta is now grappling with an acute water crisis, with residents relying on tankers for their daily needs.
In Balochistan, the drought conditions will be moderate in Gwadar, Kech, Lasbela, Panjgur and Awaran, with mild conditions in Chagai, Jaffarabad, Jhal Magsi, Sibbi, Nushki and Washuk. The rainfall deficit in Balochistan is (-52 percent).
In general, the rainfall from September 1, 2024, to March 21, 2025, was 40% below the average.
