Pakistan’s Meteorological Department has issued a drought alert due to significantly below-average rainfall across the country, warning that conditions could worsen in southern and eastern regions.
Between September 1, 2024, and March 21, 2025, rainfall was 40% below normal nationwide. Sindh recorded a 62% deficit, while Balochistan experienced a 52% drop, according to official data.
Other regions also faced notable shortfalls: Punjab saw 38% less rainfall, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa 35%, and Azad Kashmir 29% compared to historical averages.
The Met Office said recent rains improved conditions in central and upper regions, but southern Sindh, parts of Balochistan, and eastern plains of Punjab continue to face dry conditions.
“There is severe water scarcity in Tarbela and Mangla Dams,” the department stated, adding that average temperatures in southern areas this March are 2–3°C above normal.
It also noted that in some southern regions, the number of consecutive dry days has surpassed 200, and warned that the situation may deteriorate further if rainfall does not improve.
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