Temperature Trends Over Time in Pakistan
June 10, 2024Why care about temperature?
Temperature is an important statistic for understanding climate. Temperature variations in specific regions can have significant repercussions for both humans and the ecosystem. Higher temperatures can lead to severe weather events like heatwaves, storms, and floods. They may also deplete water resources in certain areas, worsening drought conditions. Furthermore, temperature fluctuations can have an impact on crop yield, potentially leading to food shortages and economic instability in agricultural regions. Rising temperatures may also damage air quality, contribute to heat-related illnesses, aid in the spread of vector-borne diseases, and exacerbate chronic conditions (NIEHS 2022).
Historical statistics from 1901 to 2016 reveal an alarming pattern of rising temperatures in Pakistan. Understanding these trends is critical for developing strategies to combat climate change and its detrimental effects. Immediate and persistent efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are required to reduce the rising trend and protect the environment and humans from future climate-specific problems.
Temperature overview in Pakistan
Figure 1 illustrates that temperatures in Pakistan have been around 2 degrees Celsius higher in recent years than they were between 1901 and 1980.
Temperature variations in Pakistan compared to the 1901-1950 Average
The analysis of temperature anomalies in Pakistan from 1901 to 2016, relative to the 1901-1950 average, reveals significant fluctuations and an overall increasing trend in temperatures, as shown in Figure 2.
From 1901 to 1920 and from 1920 to 1940, temperature anomalies remain primarily within the -2.2 to 2.2 degrees Celsius range, including one instance exceeding -3 degrees. From 1940 to 1980, there was a slight increase in temperature anomalies compared to earlier periods. The range remained mainly between -2.2 and 2.2 degrees but with several values exceeding 2.2 degrees, with the highest reaching around 3.5 degrees.
Temperature anomalies have increased significantly in the early 21st century, particularly between 2000 and 2010, with several values above 2 degrees and some even exceeding 4 degrees. The anomalies mostly range from -1.5 to 3 degrees, indicating continued fluctuation but with a noticeable upward trend.
Overall trend and the way forward
Figure 2 indicates a slight but consistent increase in temperature anomalies over time. This upward trend may be attributed to significant industrialization during the Ayub Khan era in the mid-20th century in Pakistan (Hussain & Ahmed 2012).
If the trend of rising temperatures in Pakistan continues, it could result in several environmental and societal issues. As a result, this article urges policymakers to establish effective control measures and policies to combat increasing temperatures before the situation worsens. Proactive measures are needed to address future climate challenges and to maintain a sustainable future.
References
Hussain, S. S., & Ahmed, V. (2012). Brief History of Industrial Policy in Pakistan. In Experiments with Industrial Policy: The Case of Pakistan (pp. 3–7). Sustainable Development Policy Institute. http://www.jstor.org/stable/resrep00586.5
NIEHS. (2022, June 6). Temperature-related death and illness. In Climate change and human health. Retrieved from https://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/programs/climatechange/health_impacts/temperature/index.cfm
By Sarah Maham