The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures across most parts of the country from August through October 2026, urging the public and relevant authorities to take precautionary measures.
According to the department, rainfall is expected to remain below normal in many areas of Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan during August. Reduced rainfall is also forecast for parts of northeastern Punjab, Azad Kashmir, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while Gilgit-Baltistan is likely to receive near-normal precipitation.
The PMD warned that higher-than-normal temperatures could increase irrigation requirements and pose risks to Kharif crops. It also highlighted the possibility of water shortages in Punjab and Sindh, which may negatively impact the agricultural sector.
The department further cautioned that rapid glacier melting, glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), and landslides remain significant risks in northern regions. Flash floods in mountainous areas, urban flooding in major cities, and rising water levels in seasonal streams across southern Punjab and Balochistan are also possible.
Additionally, strong winds, dust storms, thunderstorms, and hailstorms could damage crops in several areas. The PMD has also advised precautionary measures against the potential spread of dengue in low-lying and flood-affected regions.
The weather department expects the trend of below-normal rainfall to continue across most parts of Pakistan through October, making water management and disaster preparedness increasingly important in the coming months.
