The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued a drought alert for the western and southwestern districts of Balochistan in the wake of rainfall deficit and below-normal rain predictions.
The rainfall deficit across western and southwestern Balochistan has further intensified during the period from May to November 2025.
Considering the climatological patterns and the seasonal forecast for December 2025 to February 2026, these regions are likely to experience below-normal rainfall along with above-normal temperatures.
Such conditions are expected to further intensify drought conditions in Chagai, Gwadar, Kech, Kharan, Mastung, Nushki, Pishin, Panjgur, Killa Abdullah, Quetta, and Washuk.
However, a rainfall system is likely to affect parts of Balochistan later this month, which may offer partial relief and help reduce the severity of drought conditions.
“All stakeholders, particularly farmers, agricultural planners, and relevant institutions, are advised to remain vigilant and stay updated through PMD’s official website for the latest advisories, forecasts, and drought-related information”, the PMD stated in the Advisory while suggesting taking measures to cope with the situation.
“All relevant stakeholders are advised to undertake pre-emptive measures in drought-prone districts to minimise potential impacts on agriculture, livestock, and livelihoods”, the Advisory reads.
Key Anticipatory Actions:
Pre-position of fodder, water tanks, and mobilise mobile health and veterinary teams. Disseminate drought alerts via SMS, mosques, and community hubs for the issuance of judicious water usage advisories for agriculture and livestock.
Coordinate with NGOs and stakeholders for contingency support to initiate targeted subsidies for smallholder farmers. Strengthen water storage and promote efficient irrigation techniques in hotspot union councils.
Less rainfall, higher temperatures likely in Pakistan during December 2025
