Last updated: April 14, 2025
The climate of Pakistan is characterized by its remarkable extremes, reflecting the nation’s diverse geography. In the frigid heights of Gilgit-Baltistan, temperatures plummet to a chilling minimum of -38°C (-35°F) in December, while in the arid plains of Balochistan, a scorching maximum of 53°C (128°F) is recorded in May. Rainfall varies significantly across regions, with a paltry 2 mm (0.1 in) gracing Sindh in December, contrasted by a lush 232 mm (9.1 in) in July in Azad Kashmir. Humidity levels also fluctuate, with an average low of 19% in April in Sindh, climbing to a humid peak of 88% in February in Gilgit-Baltistan. This climatic diversity accentuates the richness of Pakistan's environmental landscape and underlines the varying lifestyles adapted to these conditions.
Pakistan boasts a rich tapestry of climate zones, each contributing to the country's unique ecological diversity. In Azad Kashmir, the climate ranges from Cfa to Dfb, characterized by its temperate conditions. Moving to Balochistan, one can encounter arid climates categorized under BSh, BWh, and more, illustrating the region’s vast deserts. The stunning landscape of Gilgit-Baltistan features BWk and Dfc climates, showcasing both arid and alpine conditions. The capital, Islamabad, enjoys a relatively mild Cwa climate, while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa presents a diverse mix of climates, including Cfa, Csb, and Dfb. In Punjab, one can find a combination of Cwa and BWh, contributing to its agricultural richness. Lastly, Sindh is dominated by the BWh climate, known for its scorching heat. Together, these regions embody the climatic diversity that is a hallmark of Pakistan.
| Climate Zone | Description |
|---|---|
| BSh | Hot semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BSk | Cold semi-arid climate with low rainfall and significant temperature variation. |
| BWh | Hot desert climate with extremely low rainfall and high temperatures. |
| BWk | Cold desert climate with low rainfall and cold temperatures. |
| Cfa | Humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. |
| Cfb | Oceanic climate with mild temperatures and moderate rainfall year-round. |
| Csa | Hot-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
| Csb | Warm-summer Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters. |
| Cwa | Monsoon-influenced humid subtropical climate with dry winters and hot summers. |
| Dfb | Humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. |
| Dfc | Subarctic climate with cold, long winters and short, mild summers. |
| Dsb | Warm-summer Mediterranean-influenced humid continental climate with dry summers. |
Pakistan experiences a striking temperature contrast throughout the year, showcasing both extreme cold and intense heat across its diverse regions. January and February bring the chill of winter to Gilgit-Baltistan, where temperatures plummet to between -36°C (-32°F) and -37°C (-34°F), while Balochistan and Sindh enjoy milder conditions with highs reaching up to 32°C (89°F) and 37°C (99°F), respectively. As spring emerges in March and April, temperatures in the north begin to rise, but the south swelters with record highs of 44°C (112°F) and 50°C (122°F). This trend continues into May and June, with Balochistan peaking at a scorching 53°C (128°F), while the northern regions remain notably chilly. The summer months of July and August maintain high temperatures, particularly in Balochistan, where thermometers hover around 49°C (120°F), though Gilgit-Baltistan still experiences frost at night. With autumn settling in during September and October, the intense heat gradually fades, but northern temperatures can dip as low as -32°C (-25°F). Finally, December wraps up the year with its harsh chill, where the remote areas of Gilgit-Baltistan can see lows of -38°C (-35°F), while southern regions enjoy relatively mild temperatures at 34°C (93°F). This dramatic fluctuation highlights Pakistan's unique climate, offering a vivid tapestry of weather conditions throughout the year.
Precipitation patterns in Pakistan reveal a striking contrast between regions and seasons. While Sindh experiences minimal rainfall, with December seeing as little as 2 mm (0.1 in) and a dry June boasting 0 days of precipitation, Azad Kashmir stands in stark opposition. This northern region witnesses a dramatic surge in rain during July, receiving up to 232 mm (9.1 in) across 24 days, showcasing the monsoon's intensity. Such variability emphasizes the diverse climatic influences across Pakistan, highlighting the need for tailored water management strategies to address both flooding in the north and drought in the south.
Pakistan experiences a diverse range of humidity levels, reflecting its varied geography. In the arid plains of Sindh, humidity dips to a minimum of 19% in April, highlighting the stark, dry heat of the region. In contrast, the mountainous terrain of Gilgit-Baltistan sees a dramatic peak in humidity, reaching a maximum of 88% in February, as cold air gathers moisture. This notable disparity signifies the influence of geography on climate, with coastal and mountainous areas experiencing significantly different humidity patterns throughout the year. Such trends are essential for understanding local weather conditions and their impacts on lifestyle and agriculture across the country.
Pakistan's UV index trends reveal significant regional variations, particularly noteworthy during the summer months. In June, the average daily maximum UV index peaks at an impressive 17 in the stunning landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting the intense solar exposure experienced in these northern regions. As the summer progresses into July, the average daily maximum UV index in Islamabad remains high at 11, indicating that while the capital enjoys a somewhat milder UV environment compared to Gilgit-Baltistan, residents and visitors alike should remain vigilant about sun protection. These trends underscore the importance of awareness regarding UV exposure across different parts of Pakistan during the sunniest months of the year.
UV Risk Categories
Sunshine duration in Pakistan reveals significant regional variations and seasonal trends. For instance, Gilgit-Baltistan experiences a modest 203 hours of sunlight in January, which contrasts sharply with Sindh, where sunshine soars to 245 hours during the same month. As the year progresses, particularly in May, Sindh continues to bask in sunlight with an impressive 371 hours, showcasing its warm climate. Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan shines brightly in July, recording an outstanding 397 hours of sunshine. This juxtaposition highlights not only the diverse climatic conditions across the regions but also the peak summer sun that benefits both areas in different months, making sunshine a vital aspect of life in Pakistan.
In Pakistan, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather varies significantly by region and month. For instance, in March, Gilgit-Baltistan enjoys only a modest 27% chance of sunshine, reflecting its cooler climate and mountainous terrain. In stark contrast, November in Balochistan boasts a remarkable 97% likelihood of sunny days, showcasing its dry, arid conditions. This stark regional contrast highlights not only the diversity of Pakistan's climate but also indicates ideal times for travelers seeking sun-drenched experiences throughout the year.
In Pakistan's picturesque region of Gilgit-Baltistan, daylight hours experience a dramatic shift throughout the year. During the cold month of December, the sun graces the region for only 9 hours, allowing for a cozy atmosphere and the beauty of winter landscapes. However, as summer approaches in June, daylight expands significantly to an impressive 14 hours, inviting longer adventures and outdoor activities amid the stunning mountainous backdrop. This striking contrast not only shapes daily life but also influences tourism, emphasizing the region's allure during its sun-soaked months.
Nestled in the majestic mountains, Azad Kashmir's climate offers a striking contrast throughout the year. In the heart of winter, temperatures can plunge to a frosty -20°C (-3°F) in December, while the summer months bring soaring highs up to 45°C (113°F) in June. This diverse range is accompanied by significant rainfall, especially in July when 232 mm (9.1 in) of precipitation can transform the landscape into a lush paradise. With humidity levels fluctuating from 43% in June to a peak of 73% in December, this region is not just defined by its temperatures but also by its rich, vibrant atmosphere. For further details, explore the full Azad Kashmir climate.
Balochistan, Pakistan, experiences an extreme climate characterized by significant temperature variations throughout the year. Winters can be particularly frigid, with January lows reaching -17°C (2°F), while summers soar to blistering highs of up to 53°C (128°F) in May. The region sees its wettest months in early summer, with August receiving approximately 35 mm (1.4 in) of rainfall, but overall, precipitation remains scarce, often dipping below 10 mm (0.3 in) later in the year. With humidity levels fluctuating from a dry 21% in June to a more humid 45% in August, the climate presents a stark contrast that shapes the local landscape and lifestyle. For more detailed insights, explore the Balochistan climate.
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Gilgit-Baltistan experiences a dramatic climate characterized by harsh winters and mild summers. Temperatures can plunge as low as -38°C (-35°F) in December, while the short summer months see averages soaring to a comfortable 28°C (83°F) in June. This picturesque region also witnesses significant precipitation, particularly from March to August, where rainfall peaks at 102 mm (4.0 in) in April, nourishing its stunning landscapes. With a humidity level hovering between 78% and 88%, the climate adds a unique chill to its breathtaking beauty year-round. For more detailed insights on the region's weather patterns, check the Gilgit-Baltistan climate.
Islamabad, Pakistan, boasts a varied climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January starts with chilly temperatures, dipping as low as 1°C (35°F), but by May, the city can experience sweltering highs of 42°C (107°F). The monsoon season peaks in July and August, bringing significant rainfall of 167 mm (6.6 in) and 208 mm (8.2 in), resulting in a humid atmosphere with levels reaching around 59% during these months. As the year progresses, October and November see milder conditions, making them pleasant times for outdoor activities. For more detailed information, you can visit the Islamabad climate page.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, experiences a dramatic climate characterized by both extreme temperatures and diverse precipitation patterns throughout the year. Winter months, such as January and February, can see temperatures plunge as low as -27°C (-17°F), gradually warming into the spring where averages reach 15°C (60°F) in March and up to 21°C (70°F) in April. As summer sets in, particularly in July and August, the region can experience sweltering highs between 44°C (112°F) and 50°C (122°F), coupled with significant rainfall, especially in July with 163 mm (6.4 in). The humidity fluctuates, peaking in the winter months, which can create a chilly, moist atmosphere. For a deeper insight into the region's varying weather conditions, explore the detailed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa climate.
Nestled in the heart of Pakistan, Punjab experiences a dynamic climate characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations. Winters dance between chilly nights at -7°C (20°F) and pleasant afternoons around 12°C (54°F), while the scorching summers see maxima soaring up to 49°C (120°F). Rainy spells grace the region primarily from July to September, delivering the bulk of its annual precipitation—120 mm (4.7 in) in July alone. Humidity varies significantly throughout the year, peaking in the muggy monsoon months of July and August. For a deeper dive into the region's fascinating climate, visit Punjab climate.
Sindh, Pakistan, experiences a dramatic temperature range throughout the year, with winter months like January and December dipping to as low as 3°C (37°F) before soaring into the sweltering heat of summer, where May and June can reach a scorching 50°C (123°F). The region's humidity tends to rise mid-year, peaking in August at 69%, creating a thick, sultry atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the drier months. Rainfall is sparse, with most precipitation occurring during the monsoon season from July to September, where it can accumulate to 68 mm (2.7 in) in August. This unique climate makeup shapes the life and culture in Sindh, making it a fascinating study of adaptation and resilience. For more detailed insights, visit Sindh climate.
The climate of Pakistan showcases a remarkable diversity, influenced by its varied topography and geography. From the extreme chill of -38°C in Gilgit-Baltistan during December to the searing heat of 53°C in Balochistan in May, the country experiences a wide temperature range that exemplifies its climatic contrasts. Precipitation patterns further underscore this diversity, with only 2 mm in December in Sindh juxtaposed against the generous 232 mm in July in Azad Kashmir, illustrating the stark regional differences in rainfall. Meanwhile, humidity levels fluctuate significantly, declining to an average low of 19% in April across Sindh and peaking at 88% in February in Gilgit-Baltistan. These trends highlight not only the climatic extremes but also the unique challenges and adaptations that different regions of Pakistan face throughout the year.