PMD Issues Drought Alert as Rainfall Drops by 62%
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- March 26, 2025
- 1:32 pm
- 38
- Current Affairs
PMD issues drought alert for Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab as rainfall drops by 62%, causing severe water shortages and threatening agriculture.
PMD issues drought alert for Sindh, Balochistan, and Punjab as rainfall declines sharply. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) warns of severe drought conditions despite some recent showers. From September 1, 2024, to March 21, 2025, Sindh recorded a 62% rainfall deficit, Balochistan 52%, and Punjab 38%. The prolonged dry spell is causing serious water shortages and damaging agriculture.
Water Crisis and Rising Temperatures
Pakistan is facing a severe water crisis. Tarbela and Mangla dams are reaching dangerously low levels. The water supply for irrigation and drinking is under threat. Rivers in southern Pakistan are also drying up, making the situation worse.
Adding to the crisis, March 2025 temperatures are 2-3°C higher than normal. Some regions in southern Pakistan have faced over 200 consecutive dry days. The extreme heat and lack of rainfall are worsening drought conditions. Soil moisture levels are dropping fast, making it hard for farmers to grow crops. Livestock is also at risk due to limited water and fodder supplies.
Severe Impact on Agriculture
The drought is hitting farmers hard. Many in Sindh and Balochistan report smaller crop yields. The lack of rainfall has stunted the growth of wheat, cotton, and sugarcane. Some farmers are cutting back on cultivation due to water shortages.
Livestock farmers are also struggling. Water shortages and fodder scarcity put millions of animals at risk. If the drought continues, food prices may rise, causing economic hardship for rural communities.
Drought-Affected Regions
The PMD has listed districts with moderate to mild drought conditions:
Sindh (Moderate Drought)
Padidan, Shaheed Benazirabad, Dadu, Tharparkar, Umerkot, Hyderabad, Thatta, Badin, Karachi
Balochistan (Moderate Drought)
Gwadar, Chaghi, Kech, Lasbela, Awaran, Panjgur, Sibbi
Punjab (Mild Drought)
Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan
Flash Drought Risk and Future Concerns
Experts warn that a flash drought could develop soon. High temperatures, low rainfall, and growing water demand could speed up the crisis. Many regions already see falling groundwater levels.
The National Drought Monitoring & Early Warning Centre (NDMC) is closely tracking the situation. Authorities urge farmers, local leaders, and officials to take immediate action. Water conservation strategies are now essential.
Government and Community Response
Officials advise farmers to plant drought-resistant crops. Communities must adopt water-saving methods. Government agencies are watching reservoir levels to ensure fair water distribution.
The PMD will continue to monitor conditions and offer recommendations. With climate change worsening, Pakistan must prepare for more frequent droughts. Proactive steps will help protect agriculture, water resources, and local communities.
