The Chief Meteorologist of the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has warned that the country will experience a significant rise in temperatures in the coming months, with forecasts predicting an increase of 3°C to 5°C above normal.
During a press conference, Chief Meteorologist Muhammad Afzal pointed out that winter rainfall was 42% lower than usual, with Sindh receiving 63% less rain, Balochistan 53%, and Punjab 41%.
This sharp decline in rainfall has led to dangerously low levels in dams and water lakes, raising concerns about water availability for both agricultural and household use.
Afzal also warned that northern regions would continue to receive below-average rainfall, further worsening the ongoing water crisis.
The shortage could lead to failed crops, an increase in diseases, and negative effects on wildlife. He urged the public to use water wisely to help reduce the impact of the crisis.
In urban areas, extreme heatwave conditions are expected due to the urban heat island effect, which will also worsen drought conditions.
Rising temperatures may accelerate the melting of glaciers, temporarily increasing river flows but also heightening the risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) and flash floods in northern regions.
Pakistan usually gets 19.4% of its annual rainfall between April and June, but this year, below-average rainfall is expected, leading to further depletion of groundwater, particularly in areas that rely on rain for water supply.
Meanwhile, rising temperatures in the Arabian Sea could create conditions for cyclone formation in May.
Eid ul Fitr Weather Forecast
During Eid ul Fitr, most parts of Pakistan will experience hot and dry weather, with temperatures expected to be 2°C to 3°C above normal.
Karachi, in particular, may see temperatures climb 3°C to 4°C higher than usual, making conditions uncomfortable for residents.
A wet spell with rain, thunderstorms, and mountain snowfall is forecasted for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, and northern Punjab.
Areas such as Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kohistan, and Mansehra may receive moderate to heavy rainfall.
Punjab’s plains are likely to experience dust storms and thunderstorms.
In northern areas, heavy rainfall could trigger flash floods, while strong winds, hailstorms, and lightning pose risks to infrastructure, including electric poles, trees, vehicles, solar panels, and standing crops.
Mountainous regions may face landslides and slippery roads, leading to potential travel disruptions.
Authorities have been urged to take the necessary steps to address rising temperatures, heat waves, and water shortages.
Public awareness campaigns should focus on heatwave preparedness and water conservation.
The PMD advises people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and use water responsibly to reduce the impact of the expected crisis.