Pakistan is experiencing a clear rise in temperatures, with nighttime temperatures increasing faster than daytime temperatures, according to a new scientific report from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).
The report, titled How the Climate of Pakistan has Changed: Evidence from 45-year Data Record, examines long-term changes in Pakistan’s climate between 1981 and 2025.
According to the findings, Pakistan’s average temperature has increased by approximately 0.95°C since 1981. The data also indicates that nights are warming at a faster pace than days, highlighting a significant shift in the country’s temperature patterns.
The PMD study analyzed 45 years of meteorological observations, covering temperature, rainfall, fog and extreme weather events. The long-term data provides evidence of how climate conditions across Pakistan have changed over several decades.
The faster rise in nighttime temperatures is particularly important because cooler nights normally provide relief from daytime heat. When nighttime temperatures remain higher, people, buildings and ecosystems have less opportunity to cool down.
This changing temperature pattern can also increase the effects of heatwaves. Warmer nights may make it harder for the human body to recover from prolonged daytime heat, especially during periods of extreme temperatures.
Pakistan is already considered highly vulnerable to climate change because of its geographical conditions and exposure to extreme weather. Rising temperatures can affect agriculture, water resources, public health and energy demand.
The increase in average temperatures may also influence seasonal weather patterns. Farmers and communities that depend on predictable weather conditions could face greater challenges as temperature and rainfall patterns continue to change.
The PMD report’s analysis of rainfall and extreme weather events adds further importance to the findings. Long-term meteorological records help scientists identify climate trends and understand whether changes are isolated events or part of broader patterns.
The 1981 to 2025 period provides a substantial data record for studying Pakistan’s changing climate. Such observations can support government agencies, researchers and policymakers in developing better climate adaptation strategies.
For cities, rising nighttime temperatures could also create additional pressure on electricity demand. People may rely more heavily on fans, air conditioners and other cooling systems when temperatures remain elevated after sunset.
The findings underline the need for stronger climate monitoring and better preparation for extreme heat. Accurate weather and climate data can help authorities improve early warnings and protect communities during dangerous weather conditions.
Pakistan’s warming trend also reinforces the importance of long-term climate planning. Infrastructure, agriculture, water management and urban development may all need to account for increasingly warmer conditions.
The PMD report offers a detailed picture of how Pakistan’s climate has evolved over the past 45 years. Its findings show that climate change is not limited to hotter days, with nighttime warming emerging as an important part of the country’s changing climate.
As temperatures continue to rise, continued monitoring of both daytime and nighttime conditions will be essential for understanding future climate risks and helping Pakistan prepare for a warmer environment.
