In May 2024, Pakistan experienced its second driest May since 1961, with significantly below-average rainfall of -66%. The average rainfall for the month was recorded at 5mm, surpassing the previous low of 3.6mm in 1988. Mohenjo-Daro in Sindh observed the hottest day of the month on May 26th, with a scorching maximum temperature of 52.5°C.
The national mean monthly temperature for Pakistan was 30.44°C, marking a notable increase of +1.50°C compared to the country’s average of 28.94°C. Both daytime (maximum) and nighttime (minimum) temperatures exceeded the countrywide averages, with daytime temperatures at 38.33°C and nighttime temperatures at 22.49°C. Jacobabad, also in Sindh, recorded the warmest mean monthly maximum temperature of 46.7°C.
While some regions experienced moderate to heavy rainfall due to shallow westerly waves, most of the country remained dry throughout the month. A heatwave affected Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, with temperatures soaring up to 50-52°C in some areas.
Notable rainfall figures for May 2024 include Kalam and Malam Jabba with 61mm, Dir with 53.4mm, and Chakwal with 41.7mm. However, several cities, including Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur, and Multan City, remained completely dry. Meanwhile, Kot Addu, Kamra Airbase, and Peshawar City recorded only traces of rainfall.
Overall, May 2024 saw temperatures well above average across Pakistan, with anomalies ranging from -1.5 to 5.1°C. Despite localized rainfall in some areas, the month was characterized by dry conditions and extreme heatwaves in others.
