The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a climate outlook warning that below-normal rainfall in December and early January may lead to a significant drop in soil moisture across several regions of the country.
According to the PMD, the dry spell could create challenges for Rabi crops, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
The department noted that rain-fed agricultural areas may face intensified difficulties as a result of the expected moisture shortage. Higher-than-normal temperatures during this period may also increase the likelihood of pest attacks on crops, adding further pressure on farmers.
However, the PMD expects an improvement in weather conditions toward the end of January and during February, with better rainfall likely. This anticipated shift may help reduce persistent smog and fog, while also improving water reserves and restoring moisture levels in the soil.
The forecast, covering the next three months, highlights the need for agricultural planning and precautionary measures to mitigate potential crop damage in vulnerable regions.
