Jammu Kashmir is grappling with a significant rainfall deficit of 78% over the past two and a half months, with no major weather activity expected until the end of December.
South Kashmir’s Shopian district tops the list with a staggering 96% deficiency recorded between October 1 and December 18, 2024.
The persistent dry spell has exacerbated the deficit, coinciding with a cold wave gripping the region.
Data reveals a 75% shortfall in precipitation across Jammu and Kashmir from October 1 to December 19, with only 21mm of rainfall recorded against the normal 97.1mm.
After Shopian, Poonch reported a 95% deficit, followed by Kulgam and Budgam at 94% and 90%, respectively. Srinagar recorded an 87% deficit, while Samba stood out as the sole location with above-normal precipitation, registering 47mm against the usual 41.76mm. Kupwara recorded a comparatively lower deficit of 41%.
The Meteorological Department predicts mostly dry weather over the next few days, with light snowfall anticipated over higher reaches on December 21 and 22.
Dry conditions are expected to persist from December 23 to 24, with snowfall likely between the evening of December 27 and the morning of December 28.
Light snow may also occur on December 31, while the cold wave is expected to continue in scattered areas.
Tourists, travelers, and transporters are advised to heed traffic and administrative advisories in light of icy road conditions and sub-zero temperatures, particularly in higher-altitude regions. (KNO)