Staff Reporter:Â
QUETTA: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued an early warning to the Balochistan government, indicating an increased risk of drought across 12 districts of the province.
According to the PMD, these districts have been placed under drought monitoring as dry and semi-arid conditions continue to intensify. The department has advised the provincial authorities to take precautionary measures in areas likely to be affected.
Balochistan generally experiences an arid and semi-arid climate, with low and variable rainfall, high temperature fluctuations, and prolonged dry periods. The southern and southwestern parts of the province are particularly dry and less influenced by summer monsoon systems, relying mainly on winter rainfall that ranges annually between 71 and 231 millimeters.
From May to October 2025, rainfall in these regions was recorded at 79% below normal levels, accompanied by a significant increase in the number of dry days — a clear indication of prolonged drought conditions. This persistent lack of precipitation is likely to trigger drought across vast areas of the province.
Based on the weather patterns and forecasts for November 2025 to January 2026, below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures are expected, which could further aggravate drought conditions, especially in western and southwestern Balochistan.
Districts placed under drought monitoring include Chagai, Gwadar, Kech, Kharan, Mastung, Nushki, Pishin, Panjgur, Qilla Abdullah, Quetta, and Washuk.
The PMD has warned that the current dry conditions could lead to water shortages in agricultural zones, particularly affecting irrigation for Rabi crops. Authorities have been urged to take proactive measures to minimize the potential impacts on agriculture, livestock, and livelihoods.
