ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Pakistan is bracing for more intensified weather patterns, with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) warning that the next year’s monsoon could bring 22–26% more rainfall compared to 2025.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a short-term plan to reduce expected losses and strengthen coordination with provinces in the wake of harsh weathers as climate risk mounts.
The NDMA director general while talking to media said the intensity of weather events is increasing across Pakistan, adding that substantial preparation is required at both federal and provincial levels.
He revealed that climate-induced emergencies compelled 3.1 million people to move to safer areas this year, underscoring the scale of vulnerability.
2026 monsoon projections
According to disaster management agency’s projections, rainfall in 2026 is expected to be 22–26% higher, posing risk of high floods. The DG further said that rainfall intensity may decrease in June or July, but larger climatic shifts continue to reshape seasonal patterns.
Pakistan is home to around 7,500 glaciers. The NDMA chief noted these glaciers are increasing by 2–3% annually, contributing to glacial lake formation and water-related hazards.
He stressed that the federation and provinces have many works to do and prepare to tackle both immediate and long-term threats.
The NDMA DG said the authority issues early warnings six to eight months ahead, allowing provinces to prepare more effectively. “If we talk about weeks, the provinces will be able to take better measures,” he added.
He confirmed that decisions related to tourism management in vulnerable areas of the country have been finalised, adding recommendations for managing river inflows have also been discussed about.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a short-term plan aimed at preventing the harmful impact of climate change and ordered immediate implementation.
He stressed that preparations must begin now to minimize losses during the upcoming monsoon season while directing officials to work in close collaboration with provincial governments to develop a coordinated climate response.
Every third year, Pakistan is forced to spend a significant portion of its GDP battling climate impacts, the resources that should go to national development.
