Staff Report
PESHAWAR: Vulnerable to climate change, Pakistan is likely to witness a severe shortage of water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial consumption in the next few years, specifically due to changing weather patterns, including a decrease in snowfall and rains.
According to Meteorological Office, Pakistan recorded 77% below rainfall in February against the total normal rains due to global warming and climate change-induced weather patterns, adding that 67% less downpour was recorded in Azad Kashmir, 36% below in Gilgit Baltistan, 54% less in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 90% cent less in Punjab and no rainfall in Baluchistan and Sindh.
Climate change and rain circle
Likewise, in January last, 21% below normal downpour was recorded in Pakistan due to climate change. Out of the total rainfalls, 39 %less downpour was reported in Baluchistan, 12% less in Gilgit Baltistan, 35%below in Punjab, and 85% less in Sindh. However, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir have received 11% more downpours each during the period, apparently due to increased forest cover.
The Met Office said that there would be no rainfall in Pakistan till 20 March; however, a rainfall system was expected to be developed in the Middle East after 20 March, hoping to bring rain to Pakistan.
