Severe Drought Risk Looms Over 12 Balochistan Districts as Rainfall Drops by 79%, Warns Met Office

Quetta: The **Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD)** has issued a **drought alert** for **12 districts of Balochistan**, warning of worsening dry conditions due to a **79% decline in rainfall** from May to October 2025. The department has urged the provincial government to take **immediate precautionary measures**.

According to the PMD report, **southern and southwestern districts** of the province — which largely depend on winter rains — have recorded a **drastic shortfall in precipitation** and a noticeable **increase in consecutive dry days**.

The report cautions that the prolonged lack of rainfall is heightening the risk of **severe drought**, and forecasts indicate that from **November 2025 to January 2026**, the region may continue to experience **below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures**.

Districts likely to be affected include **Chagai, Gwadar, Kech, Kharan, Mastung, Nushki, Pishin, Panjgur, Qila Abdullah, Quetta, and Washuk**.

The PMD warned that the worsening drought could lead to **acute irrigation water shortages for Rabi crops**, severely impacting **agriculture and livelihoods** in the region.

Authorities have been advised to implement **early warning systems** at the district level and take **immediate measures** to mitigate the impact on **agriculture, livestock, and rural livelihoods**, while ensuring **public awareness and preparedness**.