The Chief Meteorologist of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a warning about a significant rise in temperatures across the country in the coming months, with forecasts indicating an increase of 3°C to 5°C above normal levels.
Decline in Rainfall & Water Crisis
Speaking at a press conference, Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal highlighted that winter rainfall was 42% below normal, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53%, and Punjab 41%. The severe reduction in rainfall has caused dams and water reservoirs to reach critically low levels, raising concerns over water availability for both agriculture and domestic use.
Afzal further cautioned that below-normal rainfall is expected in northern regions, intensifying the ongoing water crisis. The shortage could lead to crop failures, disease outbreaks, and harm to wildlife. He urged the public to use water responsibly to help mitigate the crisis.
Heatwave & Climate Risks
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Urban areas will experience severe heatwave conditions due to the urban heat island effect, worsening drought conditions.
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Rising temperatures may accelerate glacier melting, leading to temporary increases in river flows but also heightening the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods in northern areas.
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Pakistan typically receives 19.4% of its annual rainfall between April and June, but below-average rainfall is expected this year, contributing to groundwater depletion, particularly in rain-fed regions.
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The Arabian Sea’s rising temperatures may lead to cyclone formation in May.
Eid ul Fitr Weather Outlook
During Eid ul Fitr, most parts of the country will experience hot and dry weather, with temperatures 2°C to 3°C above normal.
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Karachi could see daytime temperatures rise by 3°C to 4°C above normal, adding to public discomfort.
Upcoming Weather Events (March 26-27)
A wet spell with rain, thunderstorms, and mountain snowfall is expected in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab.
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Areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra may receive moderate to heavy rainfall.
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Dust storms and thunderstorms are likely over Punjab’s plains.
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Heavy rainfall in northern areas may trigger flash floods, while windstorms, hailstorms, and lightning pose risks to electric poles, trees, vehicles, solar panels, and standing crops.
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Landslides and slippery road conditions could disrupt mountainous areas.
Precautionary Measures & Public Advisory
Authorities have been urged to implement safety measures to address rising temperatures, heatwaves, and water shortages.
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Public awareness campaigns should educate communities on heatwave preparedness and water conservation.
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The Met Office advises people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor exposure, and conserve water to mitigate the impact of the impending crisis.
