Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has released its weekly drought update, noting varied rainfall and temperature patterns across the country for the week of July 22 to 31, 2024. Significant rainfall deviations and upcoming weather conditions were highlighted, forecasting potential impacts on regions already experiencing drought conditions.

According to Pakistan Meteorological Department, while many areas received above-normal rainfall, regions including most of Sindh, Gilgit Baltistan, and parts of Balochistan, southern KPK, and southern Punjab saw less precipitation than usual. The department’s detailed spatial analysis pointed out that western Balochistan, eastern Gilgit Baltistan, and some areas of Punjab did not record significant rainfall during the week.

Temperature analyses indicate that mean temperatures across Pakistan were above normal, with variations ranging from 1°C to 7°C higher than the average. This increase contributes to the exacerbation of drought conditions in already dry areas.

Looking ahead, from August 1 to 7, 2024, intense rain-windstorms and thundershowers are expected across the country, particularly affecting Kashmir, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and parts of Balochistan. These conditions are likely to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall, leading to widespread and isolated torrential downpours. The week is expected to transition into hot and humid weather towards its end.

The Meteorological Department uses advanced satellite data from NASA’s GRACE-FO satellite and other observations to monitor soil moisture and drought indicators. This data is crucial for forecasting and preparing for weather-related challenges, especially in agricultural and water-sensitive regions of Pakistan.