Jk Records 79 Percent Rainfall Deficit, Prolonged Dry Spell Raises Concerns

Jk Records 79 Percent Rainfall Deficit Image/VoM

VoM News Desk | February 14, 2025 | 11:25 PM IST | Breaking News | Follow on Google News

Jk Records 79 Percent Rainfall Deficit, Prolonged Dry Spell Raises Concerns

Jammu and Kashmir has experienced an alarming 79% rainfall deficit since the beginning of the year, with all districts reporting a significant shortfall in precipitation. The worst-hit district is Kathua, which recorded a staggering 97% deficit between January 1 and February 12, 2025, according to official data.

Severe Deficit Across the Region

The Union Territory received only 29.8 mm of rainfall during this period, far below the normal 140 mm. Several districts recorded drastic shortfalls:

• Jammu witnessed a 94% deficit, while Udhampur and Samba reported a 92% deficiency.
• Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded an 82% shortfall.
• Shopian, Reasi, Ramban, Kulgam, Doda, Budgam, and Anantnag reported deficits ranging between 80% and 89%.
• Pulwama, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Baramulla faced a 70-79% shortfall, while Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar, and Ganderbal reported a 60-69% deficit.

With all districts falling under the “large deficiency” category, concerns are growing over the impact on agriculture, water availability, and overall climate patterns in the region.

Meteorological Department Forecasts Extended Dry Spell

The Meteorological Department has ruled out any significant rainfall in the coming days, predicting continued dry weather until at least February 15.

Weather Outlook:

• February 16: Cloudy skies with light rain and snow expected in isolated areas of north and central Kashmir, mainly during the evening and night.
• February 17-18: Partly cloudy conditions with sporadic light rain and snow in higher reaches. No major weather activity is anticipated.
• February 19-20: Generally cloudy skies, with light rain and snow at scattered locations, particularly during the night of February 19 and the afternoon of February 20.
• February 21-22: Partly cloudy conditions with light rain and snow possible at isolated locations.

Concerns Over Agriculture and Water Availability

The prolonged rainfall deficit has raised concerns among farmers and horticulturists, who rely on winter precipitation for soil moisture and water reserves. Additionally, a dry winter could impact hydroelectric projects, drinking water supply, and the overall ecosystem in the region.

Authorities and weather experts are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for much-needed precipitation in the coming weeks to ease the worsening dry conditions.

VoM News Desk

VoM News is an online web portal in jammu Kashmir offers regional, National & global news.