Regional characterization of meteorological and agricultural drought in Baluchistan province, Pakistan

Drought is a complex natural hazard that occurs when a region experiences a prolonged period of dry conditions, leading to water scarcity and negative impacts on the environment. This study analyzed the recurrence of drought and wet spells in Baluchistan province, Pakistan. Reconnaissance Drought Index (RDI), Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), and Vegetation Condition Index (VCI) were used to analyze droughts in Baluchistan during 1986-2021. Statistical analysis i.e. run theory, linear regression, and correlation coefficient were used to quantify the trend and relationship between meteorological (RDI, SPEI) and agricultural (VCI) droughts. The meteorological drought indices (1, 3, 6, and 12-month RDI and SPEI) identified severe to extreme drought spells during 1986, 1988, 1998, 2000-2002, 2004, 2006, 2010, 2018-2019, and 2021 in most meteorological stations (met-stations). The Lasbella met-station experienced the most frequent extreme to severe droughts according to both the 12-month RDI (8.82%) and SPEI (15.38%) indices. The Dalbandin met-station (8.34%) follows closely behind for RDI, while Khuzdar (5.88%) comes in second for the 12-month SPEI. VCI data showed that Baluchistan experienced severe to extreme drought in 2000, 2001, 2006, and 2010. The most severe drought occurred in 2000 and 2001, affecting 69% of the study region. A positive correlation was indicated between meteorological (RDI, SPEI) and agricultural drought index (VCI). The multivariate indices can provide valuable knowledge about drought episodes and preparedness to mitigate drought impacts.