ISLAMABAD:

The country is facing an unusual rainfall deficit in the ongoing winter season, raising fears of drought and the early onset of summer.

According to the meteorological department, the country has recorded 40% less rainfall during the last four months than normal.

From September 1 to January 15, Sindh experienced a 52% decrease in rainfall, while Balochistan experienced a 45% decrease. Punjab recorded a deficit of 42%, with mild drought conditions emerging in the Potohar region, Layyah, Bhakkar and Multan.

The department noted that Punjab’s rain-fed areas are unlikely to see significant rainfall soon.

Similarly, light drought conditions have been reported in Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Sargodha, Khushab and Mianwali in Punjab; Karachi, Thatta, Badin and Hyderabad among 10 districts in Sindh and Ormara, Khuzdar, Turbat, Kech and Panjgur in Balochistan.

The department warned that the lack of rainfall could worsen drought conditions and lead to rising temperatures in the coming days.