Some of the areas affected by the current drought have not had appreciable rainfall in several years. Pakistan's authorities have been distributing food in the country's worst-hit areas for several weeks. However, as water supply wells are drawn down, population migration and stress to the regions' agriculture will increase. A senior government official in Baluchistan said the drought had affected roughly 10 million head of livestock. There are also cattle, water buffalo, donkeys, horses, and mules.
Animals provide draft power as well as food, dung fuel, manure, wool, and hides.
Overgrazing is rampant, especially in arid Baluchistan, but some 70 million sheep and goats provide a cash crop and much of the meat is eaten locally. Reportedly, commercial chicken farming is increasing dramatically. A major portion of the province's crops and fruits are produced there, including wheat, barley, maize, lucern, potatoes, apples, apricots, peaches, almonds, grapes, and pomegranates. In recent years Baluchistan has become known for its production of quality apples and dates, some of which are exported. Seasonal temperature extremes are common in the summer and winter.