PMD Issues Dire Warning for Sindh

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has sounded a drought alarm for Sindh, including urban hubs like Karachi, due to an unprecedented 52% decline in rainfall this season. This drastic shortage has put the province at risk of severe water scarcity and environmental stress.

Prolonged Dry Spell Expected

Weather experts predict that the current dry spell is likely to persist until March, compounding concerns for agricultural productivity and drinking water availability. Key districts such as Sukkur, Naushahro Feroze, Jamshoro, and Shaheed Benazirabad are on high alert for escalating drought conditions.

Government Initiatives and Precautionary Steps

District administrations across Sindh have been directed to take immediate measures to mitigate the effects of the drought. Deputy commissioners in Karachi are preparing alternative solutions, while authorities in Tharparkar and Khairpur have been tasked with implementing precautionary actions to safeguard their communities.

Nationwide Rainfall Crisis

The Met Department also highlighted a broader trend of below-normal rainfall across Pakistan. Between September 2024 and mid-January 2025, the country experienced a 40% shortfall in rainfall, with Balochistan and Punjab facing reductions of 45% and 42%, respectively.

Punjab’s Drought Hotspots

Mild drought-like conditions have emerged in Punjab, particularly in regions such as Potohar, Attock, Chakwal, and Rawalpindi. Districts like Multan, Faisalabad, and DG Khan are also grappling with reduced water availability, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and communities reliant on agriculture.

Recent Rain Offers Little Relief

While a recent spell of rainfall brought hope, it failed to alleviate the dry conditions in Pakistan’s plains, leaving the country on edge. The PMD continues to urge relevant authorities to monitor the evolving situation and implement adaptive strategies to combat the effects of drought.