The Meteorological Department of Pakistan reported a significant increase in rainfall for the month of April, marking the highest recorded levels since 1961. According to the department’s latest report issued yesterday, the rainfall measured 59.3 mm, more than double the average for this time of year, which typically stands at 22.5 mm.
The heavy rainfall resulted in unfortunate incidents, with authorities confirming the deaths of at least 144 individuals due to storms and landslides throughout the month.
In contrast to the prevailing heatwave across many parts of Asia, Pakistan experienced a decrease in average temperatures for April, registering at 23.67 Celsius compared to the typical 24.54 Celsius.
Zuhair Ahmed Babar, spokesperson for the Meteorological Authority, attributed these weather anomalies to climate change. The phenomenon has been increasingly recognized as a driving force behind such deviations from historical weather patterns.
Pakistan has faced significant challenges from extreme weather events in recent years, notably the devastating floods of 2022. These floods affected approximately one-third of the country’s territory, resulting in the loss of 1,700 lives and impacting over 33 million people. Such events underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change and adapt to its consequences.
