CT Newsroom
Pakistan’s chief meteorologist has warned that temperatures may rise by 3°C to 5°C above normal in the coming months.
As per details, Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal said in the press conference that winter rainfall was 42% below normal, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53% less, and Punjab 41% less.
This severe drop in rainfall has reduced water levels in dams and reservoirs, causing concerns about water shortages for agriculture and households, he said.
He also warned that northern areas will receive less rain than usual, making the water crisis worse. This could lead to crop failures, disease outbreaks, and harm to wildlife. He urged people to use water wisely.
He further warned that the major cities will face heatwaves due to the urban heat island effect, increasing drought conditions. The extreme heat could also cause glaciers to melt faster, temporarily increasing river flows but also raising the risk of flash floods and Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the northern regions.
Pakistan usually gets 19.4% of its yearly rainfall between April and June, but this year, rainfall is expected to be below average.
He informed that during Eid ul Fitr, most of Pakistan will experience hot and dry weather, with temperatures 2°C to 3°C above normal. In Karachi, daytime temperatures could be 3°C to 4°C higher than usual, making the heat more uncomfortable.
However, on March 26-27, parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab will see rain, thunderstorms, and snowfall. Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra may experience moderate to heavy rain. Punjab’s plains may also face dust storms and thunderstorms.
Heavy rain in northern areas could cause flash floods, while strong winds, hail, and lightning could damage trees, electric poles, solar panels, and crops. Landslides may also occur in mountainous areas.
Authorities have been advised to take precautions against heatwaves, water shortages, and extreme weather. Public awareness campaigns should educate people about heatwave safety and water conservation.
It is worth mentioning here that the Meteorological Department has urged people to drink plenty of water, avoid unnecessary outdoor activities, and use water carefully to reduce the impact of the upcoming crisis.
