International weather forecasting platforms have predicted above-average monsoon rainfall in Pakistan this year.
According to Pakistan Meteorological Department spokesperson Anjum Nazir, temperatures across the country are expected to remain higher than normal from April to June. During this period, rainfall is likely to remain close to the seasonal average, which typically contributes around 19% to the country’s water reserves.
However, he noted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan are expected to receive below-average rainfall between April and June.
Highlighting the ongoing water challenges, Nazir stated that the country experienced 61% less rainfall during the recent winter season, while snowfall was also 50% lower than normal. As a result, water levels in dams across the country are already below the dead level. Several areas in Sindh have been declared under moderate drought conditions.
Focusing on Karachi, the spokesperson explained that due to widespread concrete development, the city lacks open ground for rainwater absorption. Most of the rainfall flows into the sea instead of recharging underground water reserves. He stressed the importance of rainwater harvesting and suggested building wells in remaining undeveloped areas to help raise the groundwater level.
He further added that while international models are indicating higher monsoon rains, a more precise forecast will be available by the end of May or early June.
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